Osprey Observer 2017-2 Riverview/Apollo Beach by Osprey Observer

Two Sections, 44 Pages of Community News

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February 2017 Volume 15, Issue 2 Ph: 657-2418 C E L E B R A T I N G

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Y E A R S

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District Names Elementary “C” Warren Hope Dawson, Proposes New Boundary Changes

By Tamas Mondovics

Osprey Observer 918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. Brandon, FL 33511-6121

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Dawson, a longtime resident of Hillsborough County, is a well-known attorney, and community activist. According to school officials, several community members who came to speak highly on behalf of Dawson and commended him for the great work he has Photo By Hillsborough County Public Schools done in the community. Hillsborough County Superintendent, Jeff Eakins and Warren Hope Dawson pause for photo following the school board naming Following the district’s newest school as the Warren Hope Dawson his graduation Elementary School. from Florida Hillsborough County’s newest eleA&M University, Dawson served in mentary school, once referred to as the U.S. Army Reserve as a commis“Elementary C”, was recently named sioned officer and later attended the Warren Hope Dawson Elementary Howard University School of Law School. graduating with a Juris Doctor Located in the Triple Creek degree. Subdivision in Riverview, just east of “I am very happy and humbled for Balm Riverview Rd. and north of being recognized for years of hard Triple Creek Blvd., the new school is work,” Dawson said after the vote. “I slated to open in the 2017-18 school look forward to getting to know the year with approximately 950 students faculty, staff, and students at the and close to 50 classrooms. school.” More than 280 names that includWarren Hope Dawson Elementary ed, U.S. presidents, former school School will be a part of Area 8 where board members, and community Shaylia McRae serves as area superactivists were submitted to the school intendent. board for consideration. “The parents, students, and comConfident of the selection, the munity partners in Area 8 have supboard voted on the name during its ported this entire process with an regular school board meeting last month. Continued on Page 6

Goodrich Theaters located at 10550 East Bay Rd. in Gibsonton are scheduled to open late February. For its Grand Opening promotion, the company is encouraging downloading of its app and registration for its movie club for a chance to win free movie passes for one year. Riverview residents Stephen and Lacie Krantz were recent winners and more winners will be announced. Visit www.riverview14GDX.com for details.

P O S I T I V E

C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

Local Student’s Coma Inspires Middle School Relay Fundraising Efforts A young Riverview resident is inspiring residents to raise funds for the American Cancer Society this month at a Relay for Life fundraiser at Barrington Middle School (BMS). Alex Hutchings, 14, was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor in late December and friends are hoping to raise money for the American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life Team at its "Circle of Life Food Truck Rally" in his honor. Alex, who attends BMS, was diagnosed with a Grade 3 Astrocytoma brain tumor after visiting the doctor late last year for a suspected ear infection. He received multiple surgeries in early January and is currently in a coma. The Barrington event, which will take place from 4-8 p.m. on the school’s track, will feature three food trucks, Kona Ice, a DJ truck, bounce houses, games and activities sponsored by the school’s teachers, parents and local businesses. There will also be raffles and luminaries. Admission is free, but tickets for the activities will be sold in advance and at the event. “Alex Hutchings is an amazing, generous, and caring kid,” said Barrington Relay for Life Team Captain Summer Regnier. “Our original plan was to donate 20 percent of the profits from the event to the Hutchings family to help with medical bills; however, since so many fundraisers and activities have been going on in Alex's name, they have decided to donate all of the money raised to finding a cure.” According to Regnier, Alex’s stepmother Natalie Hutchings has been instrumental in organizing the event. “Natalie has been proactive in encourag-

By Kate Quesada

ing others to help in our involvement with Relay for Life although they are not directly profiting from it,” said Regnier. “It's obvious that Natalie and Alex Hutchings,14 Allen have current brain helped raise tumor battle and Alex to be so coma have helpful inspired fundraising efforts because of the at his middle example they school. have set.” Alex is still in a coma but will soon start six weeks of radiation. Doctors and family are staying hopeful for this strong young man. “Everything happens for a reason,” said Natalie. “If this is a way to show others how important it is to live for today and join together for their friend, stranger or classmate, it would make Alex smile.” Visit Facebook and search “Alex’s Benefit Event” for information. Visit www.gofundme.com/kp-prayersforalexhutchings. BMS is located at 5925 Village Center Dr, in Lithia.

In This Issue WINGS OF FREEDOM.........................PG 4

HOA HOT TOPICS..............................PG 6 PUBLIC SAFETY ...............................PG 10 RIBBON CUTTINGS...........................PG 12

CHALKLINES....................................PG 28 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT...............PG 41 SPORTS CONNECTION ....................PG 42

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Volume 15, Issue 2

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

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February 2017

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

Remi’s Minis Gourmet Coffee and Donut Shop Is Set To Open In Winthrop Town Center

By Kathy L. Collins

Who doesn't idea for a mini like a good, tasty donut and coffee donut? If you are shop when they one of the millions were traveling in who cannot resist a California. Ben donut, then head explained, "We go over to Remi's out there a couple Minis, Inc. located in of times a year and are always fascinatWinthrop Town ed by the success Center in Riverview. of the donut and Remi's Minis is food truck industry. owned and operatSo, we thought we ed by long time would give it a try, Riverview residents, but with our own Ben and Christy twist." Ben added, Chambless. decided to find "We Remi's Minis is Ben and Christy Chambless invite you to and outfit a vintage not your ordinary, come and try their mini gourmet donuts and hand crafted coffee beverages at their Airstream travel run of the mill cofin Winthrop Town Center trailer." fee and donut shop. new shop located in Riverview. The name, For one thing, it is Remi's Minis, comes from the housed in a refurbished 1963 Airstream Travel Trailer- yeah the old silver bullets! Chambless' adopted dog, Remi. They Second, it is situated in a great commu- adopted him from the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. Remi was found tied to a nity, Winthrop Town Center in front of tree and had been shot over 30 times in the Art Factory at Winthrop Arts. the head and face with a BB gun. At Remi's Minis you can get a deliRemi's loveable face is perfect for the cious vanilla cake donut topped with logo. As a thanks to the Humane delicious ingredients such as maple Society of Tampa Bay, customers will be icing with bacon, Nutella with fresh asked to round up their order and the strawberries and even toasted coconut difference will be donated each month. and caramel. During holidays, seasonal Remi's Minis will officially open in favorites will be offered. late February. Remi's Minis will be open Remi's Minis will also serve locally Monday through Saturday from 7 a.m. roasted Blind Tiger coffee. You can get to 6 p.m. They are located at 11267 espresso based beverages such as Winthrop Main St. in Riverview. latte, brewed coffee and nitrogenFor more information, please visit infused cold brew. Ben and Christy plan www.remisminis.com or call 525-7282 to locally source the majority of the and make sure to like them on ingredients used. Facebook at Remi's Minis, Inc. Ben and Christy came up with the

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East Bay Grad, Navy Sailor Continues 75 Years Of Seabee Tradition By Alvin Plexico

“We Build, We other natural disasFight” has been the ters. motto of the U. S. “I am proud of the Navy’s Construction hard work that Force, known as the Seabees do every “Seabees”, for the day,” said Rear Adm. past 75 years. Bret Muilenburg, comRiverview native and mander, Naval East Bay High School Facilities Engineering graduate, Petty Command. “Their supOfficer 2nd Class port to the Navy and Juan Gonzalez, builds Marine Corps mission and fights around the is immeasurable, and world as a member of we look forward to the a naval construction next seven decades of battalion center locatservice.” ed in Port Hueneme, Seabees around California. the world will take part East Bay High School graduate, Petty Officer 2nd Class Juan Gonzalez, Gonzalez works in a yearlong celebraworks in construction in the Navy’s as a builder in the tion in 2017 to comConstruction Force known as the Seabees. Navy. memorate the group’s “I'm a carpenter in the Navy and 75-year anniversary. The theme of the work construction with the Seabees,” celebration is “Built on History, said Gonzalez. Constructing the Future.” The jobs of some of the Seabees "Seabees deploy around the world today have remained unchanged since providing expert expeditionary construcWorld War II, when the Seabees paved tion support on land and under the sea, the 10,000-mile road to victory for the for the Navy and Marine Corps, in war, allies in the Pacific and in Europe, humanitarian crisis and peace," said according to Lara Godbille, director of Capt. Mike Saum, Commodore, Naval the U. S. Navy Seabee Museum. Construction Group (NCG) 1. "Seabee “It's a small community, so you get resiliency, skill, and resolution under to see some of the same people and hostile and rough conditions prove our familiar faces,” said Gonzalez. "You also motto 'We Build, We Fight.' The Seabee get to keep up with your mentors." patch we wear on our uniform signifies For the past 75 years Seabees to the warfighter and civilian alike that have served in all American conflicts. they're in good hands." They have also supported humanitarian “Celebrating our 75th anniversary efforts using their construction skills to shows how a smaller community can help communities around the world folthrive throughout our history,” said lowing earthquakes, hurricanes and Gonzalez.

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Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

Kids Business Academy Makes A Difference

By Amy Schechter

According to recent U.S. Census Bureau Reports, over 50% of children between 6 and 17 participate in extracurricular activities with sports predominating. However, Students pose for a elementary aged quick picture at the children often do Kids Doing Business Academy Prep. not have access to organized sports within the public school system and instead attend some sort of after care. When Sheila Walker started Kids Doing Business Academy Prep., she had already worked in early childhood education for over 10 years and knew that elementary students had untapped potential with the ability to learn invaluable business skills. She launched a program with the mission to introduce marketing, finance, and customer service skills to local elementary students. Walker relates a question she is often asked, “How can they learn business skills at such a young age?” She remembers the first presentation she gave nearly five years ago, “I had 30 students and when I asked questions about business and marketing...I was blown away by how much they knew about business. They shared that their family members owned businesses and they could connect the dots between their lives and what I communicated.” Presentations at local elementary schools grew into a non-profit organization that offers after school entrepreneurship education, fitness programs, and

tutoring with a team of instructors who focus on helping all students reach their potentials with the ultimate goal of positively impacting the community. Unique to this after school program is Walker’s tenstep business curriculum that helps students brainstorm, build, and implement a business plan. Walker notes, “It’s not about knowing how to open up a business. It’s about learning how to organize their lives.” Friday, February 10 from 6:30-10:30 p.m., Kids Doing Business Academy Prep. is hosting its first annual “Friday Night Lights” Valentine’s event to raise money for scholarships for its summer program. Kids Doing Business Academy Prep. enrolls students of all ages and offers transportation. For information or make a donation, contact Sheila Walker at 3749169 or kidsdoingbusiness1@gmail.com. The “Friday Night Lights” event will take place at the Hilton Garden Inn, 4328 Garden Vista Dr. in Riverview. Kids Doing Business Academy Prep. is located at 6520 US Hwy.301 S Ste. 107 in Riverview. Also visit http://www.kidsdoingbusiness.com.

Volume 15, Issue 2

National Wings Of Freedom Tour Lands In Tampa To Honor Of WWII Veterans

By Tamas Mondovics

Honoring the maintained Country’s WWII them, the Veterans, Collings workers who Foundation has built them, the once again schedsoldiers, uled to land and sailors and airdisplay some of men they the rarest treashelped protect, and the citiures of WWII aviazens and famition history in lies that share Tampa this month. the freedom This is part of that they a nationwide 110Photo By Collings Foundation prehelped city tour appropriZach Smith, left, solutes WWII B-17 Veteran Bill serve.” ately named, Purple during a recent Wings of Freedom Tour organized and founded by the Collings For $15 Wings of Freedom Foundation. for adults and Tour, which allows $5 for children under 12, visitors are invitvisitors to get up-close-and-personal with ed to explore the aircraft inside and out. the WWII Vintage Boeing B-17 Flying For a bit more, visitors may also experiFortress, Consolidated B-24 Liberator, ence the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to North American B-25 Mitchell and P-51 actually take a 30-minute flight aboard Mustang. these rare aircraft. The airplanes are scheduled to fly Flights on either the B-17 or B-24 are into the Tampa Executive Airport, (former$450 per person; the B-25 flights are ly known as Vandenberg Airport located $400 per person. at Skyport Aviation, 6530 Tampa Those with deeper pockets can get Executive Airport Rd.), on Monday, February 13, and fly on to their next desti- some “stick time” in what many considers the world’s greatest fighter, the P-51. nation on Thursday, February 16. Flight training is available for $2,200 for a “The short visit will give residents a rare opportunity to visit, explore, and learn half hour and $3,200 for a full hour. All of the proceeds go back into the operation more about these unique, fully restored of the aircraft. WWII bomber and fighter aircraft,” said “Touring through and flying in these Hunter Chaney, with Collings Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit educational foundation amazing aircraft is an experience in WWII history you will never forget,” Chaney said devoted to organizing “living history” Aviation enthusiasts and visitors can events. learn more by visiting www.collingsfounChaney emphasized that the tour is in a fact a “flying tribute to the flight crews dation.org. For reservations, call 800-5688924. who flew them, the ground crews who

February 2017

Page 5

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

FX Fitness Studio Challenges You To A Healthier And Active Lifestyle

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O S P R E Y O B S E R V E R

918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Brandon, FL 33511 657-2418 (fax) 657-4469

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Tamas Mondovics

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POSITIVE COMMUNITY NEWS THROUGHOUT BLOOMINGDALE/FISHHAWK, RIVERVIEW, APOLLO BEACH, BRANDON, AND VALRICO DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

RIVERVIEW ADVERTISING

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Always helping as many inspired by living people as possible the active and live a healthier and healthy lifestyle, more-fit lifestyle. I Drew Preiss and want FX Fitness to wife Ashleigh now be known as a share this fitness place that anyone journey as the can come to, owners of the new regardless of what FX Fitness Studio your current fitness in Brandon. level is, and walk The FX Effect out feeling and Training Method is looking better”. FX Fitness isn’t a cross training just a luxury fitness style of fitness constudio. The cross sisting of group classes, Yoga, training style of boot camps, one workouts will chalDrew Preiss (along with his wife Ashleigh) lenge you and push on one personal are the owners of FX Fitness Studio in training, along with Brandon, which will be holding its Grand your limits in an a monthly 3D body environment that Opening celebration on Saturday, February 11. assessment. you feel safe and Back in 2011, Drew, an ISSA comfortable in. “Each member has Certified Personal Trainer, formerly their own set of goals to achieve, and worked with big box gyms, but decided we are there to guide them to the to start his own business by doing results they desire,” he said. boot camps on the side. Prices can range from $15 for a With the recent soft opening of FX drop-in class to $149 per month for Fitness Studio in January, the Preiss’ unlimited access to all the classes and look forward to the upcoming grand monthly assessments. opening celebration which will be held The facility is 2800 sq. ft. Hours on Saturday, February 11 at 10 a.m. A are Monday to Thursday from 5:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 5:30 a.m. free FX Boot Camp class will kick off to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to the fun at 9 a.m. You are invited to 1 p.m. It is closed on Sunday. come in and try the class and check FX Fitness is located at 932 W. out the Studio. An FX Founders membership special will be available during Lumsden Rd. in Brandon. For more information, call 643-7007 or email the grand opening. fxfitnessstudio@gmail.com. Visit According to Drew, “I want to www.fxfitnessstudio.com. make a big impact on our area by

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Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

By Kate Quesada

Volume 15, Issue 2

New Elementary......Continued From Page 1

By Tamas Mondovics

Community Yard Sale & Yoga Offered Summerfield Community Spring Yard Sale Mark your calendars for Saturday, March 25 for the Summerfield Community Spring Yard Sale. Participate in the fun from 8 a.m.–2 p.m. Turn clutter and unwanted items into extra dollars. Clean out your attics, closets and garages to sell those unwanted items in our spring community yard sale. For the past 16 years the Ladies' Club has sponsored the community yard sale and will do all the advertising. The cost will be $4 when you pay in advance and $5 the day of sale. To sign up in advance just go to the community center sign the book, pay your $4 and receive a tag to place on your mailbox. The tag indicates you have paid in advance. For those unable to pay in advance the cost is $5 and ladies’ club members will be around to collect on the day of the sale. This is your opportunity to give your unwanted treasures a second chance by selling them to someone who needs or wants your treasures and you make some money.

Rivercrest Offers Yoga and Aqua Pilates

Are you looking for a way to get some exercise close to home? The Rivercrest Clubhouse hosts Yoga with Carla on Monday and Wednesday mornings at 9:30 a.m. and Aqua Pilates with Carla Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 9:30 a.m. The yoga class offers a way to increase strength, flexibly and range of motion, while the aqua pilates is an invigorating low impact aquatic exercise class that blends together a workout that is cardio conditioning with body toning. Aqua pilates takes place in chest deep water. For more information on both classes, which cost $5 for Rivercrest residents and $6 for non-residents, contact Carla at carla3353@gmail.com. The Rivercrest Clubhouse is located at 11560 Ramble Creek Dr. in Riverview.

Rivercrest Seeks Facility Monitor

Rivercrest CDD is now accepting applications for a part-time facility monitor. The position requires that applicants be available from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. seven days a week, as evening and weekend help is often needed. The number of hours is based on need. For more information, call 6723804. Rivercrest is located at 11560 Ramble Creek Dr. in Riverview.

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Hillsborough County Public School named its newest school the Warren Hope Dawson Elementary School. It is located within the Triple Creek Subdivision in Riverview.

abundance of submissions,” McRae said adding that the community was really enthusiastic about the opportunity to submit nominations. Derrick McLaughlin, who was recently appointed principal of the school said, “The construction process is fully underway and we are excited to welcome our students in August.” he said, adding, “I am ready to get started.” The new school also means more boundary changes affecting students in south Hillsborough County. The District’s proposal has been revised to retain certain areas surrounding Shadow Run East and Raulerson Road at Stowers. The new campus will provide relief to students assigned to specific areas within the Collins, Boyette Springs, Sessums, Stowers and Summerfield Elementary School’s attendance boundaries as students are proposed to be reassigned to Warren Hope Dawson. In December, 2016, HCPS held a

meeting to receive community input on the proposed boundary changes at Rodgers Middle School. ESE services and the HOST program currently offered at each of the schools will continue to be offered. School officials have also confirmed that the Transportation Department will determine which neighborhoods will be eligible for bus transportation. The proposed reassignment will not impact students who are currently attending schools through the Choice Options program. Those interested in exploring other attendance options are asked to visit the Choice website. Staff is proposing that all students (grades PK-5) in the specified areas are reassigned effective August 2017. The Proposed boundaries are not final until school board approval, scheduled for February 21, 2017. For more information about the new school and school choice options please visit www.sdhc.k12.fl.us.

February 2017

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

Wish Farms Hosts Fourth Annual Strawberry Picking Challenge To Benefit RCMA

By Tamas Mondovics

Wish Farms, number of particione of the largest pating teams as growers and shipthey compete in a pers of strawberries relay-style berry in Florida, is hostpicking race is now ing its Fourth scheduled for Annual Strawberry Saturday, February Picking Challenge. 11 at Futch Farms, The competi3536 Futch Loop in tion is presented Plant City. by the Florida Maloney Photo Courtesy of Wish Farms explained that the Strawberry Local growers, farmers and residents pick day will have Growers strawberries during third Annual Strawberry Association something for Picking Challenge, hosted last spring by Wish Farms. (FSGA) supporting everyone as it feaRCMA, a non-profit tures events such organization, founded in 1965, which now as strawberry picking for children, a baloperates child-care centers and charter loon artist, a face painter, games as well schools for Florida’s rural poor, particular- as live music. ly farm workers’ children RCMA operates Aside from the money it raises, Wish 70 child-care centers and three charter Farms owner, Gary Wishnatzki, put the schools, throughout the state including 18 family-friendly event’s purpose in perin the Tampa Bay area. spective when he said, “By bringing this According to event organizer, Amber event to the farm, we hope to bring Maloney, being active in the community awareness and education to the hard has always been a focus of Wish Farms work of our farm workers.” and the Wishnatzki family. As a year round supplier of strawberThe first Annual Strawberry Picking ries and blueberries and seasonal in Challenge was presented by Bright select vegetables, Wish Farms utilizes House Networks in February 2014, and How’s My Picking? a patented tool for has raised $75,000 for RCMA. traceability to ensure quality by tying con“Last year our event donated sumer feedback to the harvest time, field $78,000 to RCMA, and we are confident location as well as the picker. that this year will be just as successful,” Organizers emphasize that sponsorMaloney said. ship opportunities at various levels are In the last three years the charity still available. For details please contact challenge has raised more than $228,000 Wish Farms Director of Marketing Amber Maloney, 758-9027 or amber@wishfor the children of RCMA. This year’s event, which brings locals farms.com. For information, visit www.wishfarms.com. growers and the public together, sports a

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Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 15, Issue 2

Over 100 Camp Out For Free Meals To Welcome Bloomingdale Chick-fil-A

By Tamas Mondovics

Filled with a variety of festive and charitable events including awarding the first 100 customers with a year supply of Chick-fil-A meals, Valrico’s first stand-alone 5,300-square-foot Chick-fil-A restaurant opened on time and as scheduled last month. Appropriately called, First 100, Chick-fil-A’s signature event, which dates back to 2003, makes room for the first 100 local customers to camp out on restaurant’s A large group of Chick-fil-A fans who were among the first parking lot for 24 hours lead100 adults that won a one-year supply of free Chick-fil-A ing up to grand opening. meals, at Valrico’s first Chick-fil-A restaurant, are enjoying a The new restaurant drumming session directed by Drum Circle Facilitator Jana Broder, owner of Drum Magic. brings close to 100 jobs to campout,” said USF student, Jonathan the community and becomes the 22nd Chick-fil-A location within a 25-mile radius Valentine, who showed with a group of his friends to support the festive occasion. of Valrico. “It’s totally worth it,” he added. “It’s campChick-fil-A opened its first Florida ing, it’s fun, it’s supporting the community restaurant in 1971 at Cordova Mall in and, of course, free food. That about Pensacola. For days leading up to the ribbon cut- sums it up for me.” Owned and operated by Paul and ting ceremony on Thursday morning, Tammy Holmberg, the new restaurant is January 26, restaurant management and located at 2010 Bloomingdale Ave. in experienced staff from near and far welValrico, and is a much-welcomed addition comed hundreds of local residents and to the recently opened Crest Pointe guests, to take part in the traditional Towne Plaza, anchored by the new opening festivities. Walmart Supercenter. Thanks to the helping hands of the To keep the diehard Chick-fil-A fans fist 100 customers who have camped out and campers occupied during the day, overnight awaiting their reward, events restaurant owners arranged for a 30included the preparing food to treat the minute Zumba Class as well as a drumneedy at local charities with Chick-fil-A ming to the beat session courtesy of meals as well as putting together 10,000 Drum Magic, which supplied each particimeals for the Feed Children Everywhere pant with their own drums. organization. The new 130 seat restaurant is just “This is my third Chick-fil-A , First 100 Natalie Carr Bustillo DDS, MS

Se Habla Espanol

currently own and operate,” Tammy, also the current Honorary Mayor of Riverview, proudly said, adding that in 2013 the two took over ownership and operations at the Westfield Mall Brandon, until December 2016. The Holmbergs are involved in supporting many organizations, charities and schools, impacting thousands and said that the grand opening was a way to continue their commitment to the community, including the collecting of children's books to support the Campo YMCA literacy program that Tammy Diehard Chick-fil-A fans and participants of helped to get started. an overnight campout, Marlee Wlakup, right, “My team members and I can’t wait Lacy Prine and Peggy Overstreet, sit by their tents patiently awaiting the opening of the to welcome guests to our Valrico restaubrand new Chick-fil-A. rant,” Paul said. “We’re not just in the one of dozens of privately owned and chicken business — we’re in the people operated Chick-fil-A restaurants to open business. Our goal is to provide a remarkthis month, featuring a double drive thru, able experience for every customer, every serving guests 6 a.m-10 p.m, Monday time, by serving food our guests can truly thru Saturday. feel good about eating and providing sinThe Chick-fil-A South Brandon will cere hospitality.” traditionally remain closed on Sundays Of course, the Holmbergs’ success is the same as all other Chick-fil-A restauonly a continuation of what was started rants now numbering more than 2,000 by Chick-fil-A founder, Truett Cathy, who across the nation. opened his first restaurant in Hapeville, With attention to detail while promisGeorgia in 1946. Cathy founded the ing the best service possible, the Atlanta-based Chick-fil-A, Inc. in 1967. Holmbergs are confident of the successMore familiar to most, however, is the ful launch and operation of their new picture of the now famous renegade cow, restaurant which is not their first location. caught in the act in1995 with a paintbrush In fact, Chick-fil-A South Brandon will be in mouth, painting the three words "EAT the Holmbergs’ third restaurant in the MOR CHIKIN" on a Texas billboard. area and, the fourth, counting the one Chick-fil-A's family owned and prithey had owned and operated at vately held restaurant company system Regency Mall in Racine, WI, in 1992. sales exceeded $6 billion in 2015, which “In 1998, we relocated and transmarks 48 consecutive years of sales ferred ownership and opened the Chickgrowth. For more, please visit www.chickfil-A at Lake Brandon Village, which we fil-a.com.

February 2017

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

Family-Owned FishHawk Sporting Goods Ready To Serve Budding Athletes

By Kate Quesada

Bruce and “Because we Dantys Bohan buy some equipwant to be the ment used, we first people you are able to offer think of when things at a lower your little ball price point,” said player needs a Dantys. “We have new mitt or a had a lot of famibigger pair of lies in here soccer cleats. already who are Bruce and Dantys Bohan and their twin The FishHawk grateful for the daughters Miranda and Bridget, recently Trails residents opportunity to be opened FishHawk Sporting Goods in The RiverSprings Plaza on FishHawk Blvd. recently opened able to budget FishHawk Sporting Goods and are their money as well as their time.” working hard to make it the area’s first The Bohans are throwing themstop for new and gently used equipselves into the community in an effort ment from soccer and basketballs to to differentiate their store from other hockey pucks and baseball knickers. larger ones in the area and find out Located in the RiverSprings Plaza what kind of sporting goods the comat the corner of FishHawk Blvd. and munity most needs. Not only have Bell Shoals Rd., proximity is one of the they sponsored many FishHawk area many reasons the Bohan’s believe the baseball teams, they also work with area needed this store. Newsome High School’s hockey team “The idea for a sporting goods and sponsored the Turkey Trot that store was solidified for us when our took place at Park Square over twin girls started playing t-ball,” said Thanksgiving. In addition, they have Dantys. “Kids on their team were conset up areas where kids can play while stantly losing their mitts or complaining their parents shop and encourage custhat their cleats were too small and we tomers to try out equipment in the thought, how can there not be somestore before they buy it. where closer than Brandon to buy FishHawk Sporting Goods is hostsports equipment quickly when there ing a grand opening event on are so many players in our area?” Saturday, February 11 from 9 a.m.-5 According to Dantys, approximate- p.m. with treats, snacks, specials and ly 80 percent of the merchandise in discounts and a drawing for two tickets the store is new, but they also buy to a Tampa Bay Lightning hockey select gently used equipment from game. The store is located at 13446 customers if they believe it is someBoyette Rd. For information, visit thing the neighborhood would like to www.fishhawksportinggoods.com or purchase. call 324-9161.

Page 9

Dr. Wayne Lee: Plastic Surgery As An Art One can mention plastic surgery and conjure an image of Hollywood starlets and politicians who never seem to age. Yet, a far larger percentage of average Americans turn to plastic surgery for both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures. Dr. Wayne Lee and his hand-selected staff do not consider themselves just a plastic surgery center. People come to him for many reasons that make them feel less than whole. Dr. Lee’s philosophy seeks “to help people transform themselves, so that the image they have…in their minds’ eyes match the ones in the mirror.” Double-Board Certified, Dr. Lee is an expert in his field who knows that quality of life can depend on a healthy self-image. Per the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, breast augmentation continues to top the list of procedures people seek. Apart from cosmetic augmentation, breast lifts, and breast reductions, many patients do not know where to turn after mastectomies, lumpectomies, and radiation. Dr. Lee prides himself on reconstructive surgery and his ability to restore form for patients ravaged by breast cancer, and this translates into his skill in performing cosmetic breast augmentations. He provides patients with a variety of implant options, but he also stays abreast of the latest tech-

By Amy Schechter

nologies, such as biologic mesh, cellular dermis, and fat transfer processes to customize his procedure to the needs of the individual. He is practiced in the art of tattooing, so that he can recreate the pigmentation of the nipple to give people a desired appearance. Dr. Lee wants “to create a personal plan, so patients can lead more youthful, confident, active lives.” To that end, he offers other services on site such as tummy tucks, cellulite removal using Cellulaze, precision laser neck lifts, face lifts, and eyelid surgeries. His full-service surgery office/center in Brandon provides a welcoming, private place for the comfort of his patients where he can perform surgery on site with the assistance of IV sedation and general anesthesia. The 7,000 sq. ft. facility also boasts a Medi Spa where patients can freeze fat away with CoolSculpting and Smart Lipo, aesthetic services such as Botox and Zo Skin Health by Obagi. He also consults with patients in his Tampa office located near Florida Hospital. Dr. Lee has privileges at seven local hospitals. To check out monthly specials, visit www.wayneleemd.com. Call 5793369 to schedule a consultation. Brandon office is located at 1020 E. Brandon Blvd. Ste. 101 in Brandon. Tampa office is located at 3000 Medical Park Dr. Ste. 140.

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Volume 15, Issue 2

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

By Tamas Mondovics

County Promotes Year-Round Vigilance During Severe Weather Awareness Week winds, lightning, hail and a few strong, long-track tornadoes left at least 20 people dead in three states, not to

A satellite image shown by the National Weather Service (NWS) of an organized and powerful squall line, which in some areas produced winds of 60-80 mph along with isolated tornadoes, hail and heavy rain made its way across the southeast U.S. ahead of a cold front last month, reminded residents of the importance to be prepared yearround.

Hurricane season may be over, but an organized and powerful squall line, which in some areas produced winds of 60-80 mph made its way across the southeast U.S. ahead of a cold front last month, causing a severe weather outbreak. According to emergency management officials, on its way to the Tampa Bay region the storm produced hazardous conditions thanks to strong

mention the high cost of property damage. Interestingly, the weather event, which quickly reminded residents of the need to be prepared at all times, came just in time for the annual Severe Weather Awareness Week, January 23-27. Hillsborough County has joined state emergency officials in promoting and calling attention to the importance of being prepared year-round.

“It’s easy to forget that we get our fair share of hazardous conditions year-round,” said Hillsborough County Emergency Management Director Preston Cook. Cook emphasized that while a great effort is put into promoting hurricane awareness, many end up focusing their preparedness efforts only on the hurricane season. “Other types of severe weather can be just as devastating,” he said. To change such outlook County officials hope that promoting Severe Weather Awareness Week, which calls attention to potential hazards, how to prepare, and how to survive, will help widen residents’ weather outlook. The lineup for the week included a few tips which are listed below: Lightning - If you hear thunder, go indoors. Stay inside for at least 30 minutes after thunder stops. If you are outside in a storm, do not use trees for cover. Marine Hazards and Rip Currents. - Before boating, check forecasts well ahead of time. Be sure everyone is wearing a life jacket, and have a VHF marine band radio on board. Never swim against a rip current. To escape

the current, swim parallel to the shoreline. When out of the current, swim at an angle toward the shore. Tornadoes and Thunderstorms Have a family emergency plan that includes where to go if a tornado threatens. During a tornado, go to an interior room without windows, and if possible, on the lowest floor of the building. Never stay in an automobile. Hurricanes and Flooding Have a family emergency kit, and a plan that includes where you will go if you evacuate. If a flood occurs, move to higher ground immediately. Stay away from flooded roads. Turn around; don’t drown. Temperature Extremes and Wildfires - in hot weather, wear lightweight, light-colored clothing, and drink plenty of water. In cold weather, protect people, pets, plants, and pipes. When wildfire conditions exist, take steps to minimize potential damage to your home, such as removing pine needles and dry leaves within five ft. of the structure. For more information, including the County’s Disaster Planning Guide, please visit www.HCFLGov.net/StaySafe. Hillsborough County’s official notification system for emergency messages and urgent information is HCFL Alert. Residents are urged to sign up to receive messages by email, phone, and text, at HCFLGov.net/HCFLAlert, or call 272-6602.

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February 2017

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

50-Year-Old Riverview Chamber Celebrates Past, Present And The Future At Annual Dinner By Kathy L. Collins

On and Booth Friday, Photography. January 20, Alley Cat Pest the Greater Control, LLC Riverview was awarded Chamber of Business of Commerce the Year for celebrated the businesses conclusion of with up to 25 its 50th employees. Anniversary Little Harbor Year and Resort won kicked off the Business of The new Board of Directors of the Greater Riverview the Year for beginning of a Chamber of Commerce were sworn in at the chamberâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new year at its 2017 Annual Membership and Awards Dinner held at businesses The Regent in Riverview. Annual with over 25 Membership Dinner held at The Regent employees. in Riverview. The theme of the evening In addition to awards and distinctions, was Mardi Gras. There was a festive the annual dinner is also a time for the mood in the air as 340 members celegavel to be passed from the outgoing brated the success of the past year. president to the incoming one. This is Each year, the chamber recognizes also a time for the incoming Board of outstanding members for their service to Directors to be introduced and sworn in both the chamber and the community. officially. Tammy Holmberg, owner of Chick-fil-A in Dr. Bryan Thatcher, the outgoing Brandon was named the 2017 Honorary president, was presented with a Mayor of Riverview. The 2016 Hillsborough County Commissioners Ambassador of the Year is Bryan Reith of Commendation which acknowledged the Aflac. James Pulkowski, CPA received outstanding achievements that the the 2016 Margy Watkins Volunteer of the Greater Riverview Chamber of Year award. Craig Beckinger of An ABC Commerce realized under his presidency. Event, Inc. was presented with 2016 Dr. Thatcher passed the gavel to Shining Star award. The 2016 Citizen of incoming Chamber President, Eliijah the Year was awarded to Jennifer Caskey Heath of Edward Jones. Heath who said, of Center State Bank. "I have got big shoes to fill. I am happy to In addition to these distinguished be the leader of this chamber." Heath awards, the chamber also recognizes added, "I am looking forward to making businesses of various levels for the work sure members, staff and the community they do within the community. For busiare happy." For information on the nesses with three or less employees, the Riverview Chamber of Commerce, visit Business of the Year winner was Huth www.riverviewchamber.com.

Page 11

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Page 12 5

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 15, Issue 2

Riverview Chamber Welcomes New Businesses Cricket, PHIXSMART, Dog Gone, Southern Comfort & Exit

Staff Report

visitors with tours of their beautiful facility. They also treated everyone to deliCricket Wireless Is Now in Riverview In cious refreshCricket Wireless has two stores in December, ments and Riverview and is excited to be members the Greater beverages of the Greater Riverview Chamber of Riverview while Radio Commerce (GRCC). The location at Ribbon Cutting at EXIT Realty. Chamber of Station 96.3 wanting to sell a home, Summerfield Square recently celebrated Commerce was broadcasting live from the living or planning to invest in with a fun ribbon cutting ceremony in (GRCC) held room. the growing real estate December. Participants were treated to a fun ribbon Ribbon cutting at Dog Gone Holistic. Southern Comfort Family Services market of Riverview, cotton candy, snow cones, popcorn and cutting cereEXIT Realty Excel agents will be there for is a locally owned and operated busieven a bouncy house for the kids. mony took place at Dog Gone Holistic’s ness that provides the most affordable you. Their friendly, knowledgeable, and Cricket offers no annual contract new Riverview location with participants experienced agents know what it takes to care in Hillsborough and surrounding plans with straightshowing off cities, offering a range of services to the go above and beyond your expectations, forward pricing some of the client and family, both in the home setfinding realistic and affordable options for and more 4G LTE many animal ting or at the facility (Assisted Living you and your family. coverage than Ttreats and toys and Adult Day Care). Services include EXIT Realty Excel is located in the Mobile or Sprint. available in the assistance with bathing, grooming, Summerfield Plaza at 13143 US. Hwy. Plan prices include store. Darrel dressing, and dining. At the Ruskin 301 S. For information, call 863-3948 or monthly taxes and Day, owner, family home setting, they have the abilivisit www.exitrealtyexcel.com. fees. and his staff The store is laid out a nice Southern Comfort located at 13161 variety of Ribbon Cutting at Cricket Wireless. Family Services, US Hwy. 301 S in treats for LLC Celebrates Summerfield Square just north of Big humans and animals alike. The 10% disHome Opening Bend Rd. Visit www.cricketwireless.com. count offered to all those present resulted The Greater in a much-appreciated long line at the PHIXSMART Opens in Riverview Riverview Chamber cash register. of Commerce Dog Gone Holistic offers holistic and Greater Riverview Chamber of (GRCC) members natural pet foods, supplements and treats Commerce (GRCC) welcomed PHIXSwere recently invited for your fourMART, a brand to celebrate the legged family new device opening of Southern members. repair business Ribbon cutting atSouthern Comfort Family Services. Comfort Family These highby holding a ribty to accommodate residents in a warm Services, LLC. Several GRCC members quality products bon cutting in atmosphere with round the clock made the trek into south Ruskin to parcome in all price December. staffing and home cooked meals. Visit take in the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony. ranges at comPHIXSLaDonna Bennett along with her friends www.scfamilyservices.com or call 812petitive prices. MART is a new 7799. and family were thrilled to provide the Bring your player in the leashed pet with device repair you to shop at world, but their 13131 US Hwy. team members 301 S, just north are industry vetRibbon cutting at PHIXSMART. of Big Bend Rd. erans who have Visit www.doggoneholistic.biz or call a passion for technology and customer service. With top-notch customer service, 374-4743. it plans to retain customers for life by Greater Riverview Chamber of offering On Demand, Concierge Repair Commerce Celebrates Second Services for their busiest customers. This Anniversary of EXIT Realty Excel service allows the technicians to come to your work or home to handle your repair In December, EXIT Realty Excel needs. hosted a Greater Riverview Chamber of If you have a phone, tablet or comCommerce (GRCC) Ribbon Cutting puter that is in need of repair work, Ceremony to celebrate its second please give PHIXSMART a try. Visit anniversary. Stephen Hachey, www.PHIXSMART.com to schedule your Owner/Broker, and Emily Velez, repair or stop in at 13159 US Hwy. 301 S Recruiter, along with many of their agents in Summerfield Square just north of Big were on hand to welcome their guests Bend Rd. Jake or one of his trusted team and encourage them to consider EXIT for members will be happy to get your device their next home sale or purchase. put back into action right away. Call 947If you or someone you know is look0315 or email support@phixsmart.com. ing to move to the Tampa Bay area, The Riverview Chambering of Commerce recently held ribbon cuttings locally. Photos are courtesy of Ed Booth, Huth and Booth Photography.

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February 2017

Page 13

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

Riverview High Student Wins American Legion Oratorical Contest And Moves To Districts

By Sandy Meyer

Riverview High School students, Post 148 members and local scout groups came together to make Post 148’s first Oratorical contest a success.

Riverview High School recently hosted the American Legion Alafia Post 148’s Annual High School Oratorical Contest. This is a national American Legion program in existence since it was chartered by Congress in 1919 with the Oratorical contest established in 1938 and offers college scholarships nationwide. The program encourages the nation’s high school students to study the U.S. Constitution and to hone their public speaking skills. Lindsay McClellan won the contest held at the Riverview High School auditorium. McClellan, 16 years old, earned the American Legion’s Gold Patrick Henry Oratorical Medal, a $100 US Savings bond, and will now compete at the American Legion’s 15th District level against winners of contests from the district’s 16 other American Legion posts on February 4. Contestants will progress to compete for an $18,000, $16,000, and $14,000 college scholarship in April and other cash prizes along the way. Each contestant delivered a prepared oration as well as an extemporaneous oration on a randomly assigned constitutional amendment topic. McClellan impressed the judges with a speech titled “Learning the Constitution.” The runner-

up was Morgan Gardner, 16, of Riverview High School. Third place was Rolando Arellano, 18, of Riverview High School. Rick Hewett, a member of the American Legion Post 138 realized that there was a need in the South Shore area for this type of contest that provides an increased awareness of our constitution and the attendant rights, duties, and obligations of citizenship. This is the first year the American Legion Alafia Post 148 has conducted such a contest. “The Legion is an amazing historic organization filled with numerous community service programs. Unfortunately, the VFW, American Legion, and other similar groups have the stigma of just being a smokey bar filled with Vietnam vets that are only interested in drinking and telling war stories” said Hewett. “I want to change that impression with real examples of service that people want to be part of. This Oratorical contest was an example,” he added. American Legion Post 148's website is http://www.americanlegionalafiapost148.org/. For information on the contest, please visit www.legion.org/oratorical.

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Page 14 5

Volume 15, Issue 2

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

T Marie’s Sunday Market Seeks Vendors For Weekly Afternoon Outdoor Events

By Kathy L. Collins

local artisans, artists and food vendors. There are 60 booth spaces available for each market and are available for just $30. The vendors, artists and artisans change each week so there is always variety at the market. In addition to the booths, local businesses such as AJ's Fine Wine and Liquors have embraced the market and open their businesses to the attendees. "You can get some delicious food from one of our vendors and then enjoy a glass of wine T Marie Benchley and Kirk Gladwyn (shown on AJ's outdoor patio," said here with Paisley), owners of T Marie’s Fashion Benchley. & Gift Boutique started T Marie’s Valrico Benchley and Gladwyn are longSunday Market to offer families a fun activity every Sunday with 60 artists, artisans and time residents of Valrico. They are vendors selling one of a kind items. both civic minded and want to give If you are looking for a fun, family back to the community. "The market is and pet friendly activity on a Sunday that our way of giving local artists, artisans is close to home, try attending the weekly and food vendors an opportunity sell their Valrico Sunday Markets hosted by T goods," said Benchley. Marie's Fashion & Gifts Boutique, located T Marie's opened two years ago. It is at 3407 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. In Varico. T a lovely space that offers unique clothes, Marie's Valrico Sunday Market takes accessories and gifts. "This store is for all place weekly (weather permitting) from 10 women. I want them to feel beautiful and a.m. to 3 p.m. every Sunday now through offer an escape," said Benchley. "Anytime the end of May. The markets will pick you combine puppies, champagne and back up in October. chocolate, you cannot lose," added T Marie's owners, T Marie Benchley Benchley. and Kirk Gladwyn, started the Sunday The setting is just lovely for a Sunday Markets so that families could have a fun Market. The majestic oaks offer shade activity that also helps local vendors, artiand tranquility. sans and artists. "We wanted to give famThere are some spaces available, ilies something to do locally every but given the success of the market thus Sunday," explained Benchley. The far, vendor spaces will go fast. If you are Sunday Markets started on January 15, interested in becoming involved as an and since then, over 500 people have artist, artisan or food vendor, contact T gone to each market. Marie at 530-0922. Applications can be The Sunday Market is composed of picked up in the store.

McAuley Fine Jewelry (Located in the former Martin Jeweler’s)

Same Staff ... Same Location ... Same Trusted Professionals of the former Martin’s Jewelers The staff and jewelers of Martin’s Jewelers will continue to provide you with the same great service and trust in workmanship that you have always enjoyed.

Ed McAuley, Owner Served The Martin Family For Over 10 Years Open Tuesday-Friday 10-6 • Saturday 10-5

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February 2017

Page 15

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

Armor Guard Painting Offers A High Level Of Protection For Your Home

By Kathy L. Collins

Owning a home cially designed to is a wonderful thing. ensure that the exteAll homeowners rior of your home is know that their maximally protected homes require a lot against the eleof maintenance to ments. protect their investThe ment, and that process is extensive. First, includes painting an inspection of both the interior and You can count on Armor Guard the home is the exterior of the Painting & Coating completed. home. to provide a high level of protection to both the interior and exterior of your Then, a three to sixIf you could opt home thus protecting it from the harsh inch trench is dug for a method of proFlorida elements. around the perimetection that is guarter of the home to prevent ground moisanteed for a longer period, would you ture from seeping into the foundation choose it? Armor Guard Painting & which causes cracks. Next, the home is Coating offers that extra level of protecpressure washed, patches and repairs tion. are done and the home is masked off. Armor Guard Painting & Coating is one of Florida’s largest exterior and inte- Then, the primer/sealer is applied. A final coat is then applied and the trim is done. rior painting and coating companies The crew will then clean up the property, serving most of central and southern and a Completion Certificate is completFlorida, including right here in the ed. greater Brandon area. In addition to painting and coating Armor Guard Painting & Coating the exterior and interior of your home, offers a variety of options using superior Armor Guard Painting & Coating can products that extend the longevity of the also protect your pool deck and pavers, protection the products give your home. roof, garage floor and windows. They are specially formulated to withArmor Guard Painting & Coating is stand Florida’s harsh sub-tropical clia family owned business. Rodney mate. They include the Armor Coat sysYavorsky, the owner, has more than 20 tems that provide guaranteed protection for 10 or 20 years. Armor Guard Painting years of experience in the industry. Yavorsky said, “We have perfected the & Coating also offers an exterior stanprocess of protecting both the interior dard coating system that is guaranteed and exterior of your home. Call us today for 10 years and exterior painting sysand we will get you scheduled and your tems that last seven, five or three years. project completed within days.” Regardless of the system you Visit www.armorguard.net or call choose, you get Armor Guard Painting & 727-501-1264. Coating’s 10 step process. This is spe-

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Page 16 5

Volume 15, Issue 2

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

Our Residents Are Always On The Move!

County Closes Paul Sanders ‘Tree’ Park To Begin Two Month Park Renovation Project

By Tamas Mondovics

Hillsborough tion and expansion County has temhas been on the porarily closed County’s Community and began a two Project roster for month long renosome time, and vation project of when complete, the one the largest new playground will and most heavily sport engineered used parks in wood Brandon. fiber in an The improved makeover at Paul Paul Sanders Park is getting a playfacelift and is scheduled to be Sanders Park, ground temporarily closed until the end of March. 602 W. surfacing Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon, named system, which they say is designed to after long time Brandon resident Paul be enjoyed by children of all abilities. Sanders three years before his death in “The new equipment includes traditional 1991—is promising to upgrade as well as swings and slides along with a next-genexpand the park, while virtually replacing eration playground equipment that all of the playground equipment and encourages children to climb, run, and adding additional play structures, county play,” said County spokesperson Todd officials said. Pratt. Famous for its mature oak trees that The $315,000 project covered by provide shade by means of a natural the County Parks and Recreation canopy, the park has been the favorite department's budget for Capital hangout for the thousands of visitors it Improvement Projects also includes rensees annually. Picnic tables throughout ovating the restrooms, repaving the the park have been used for birthday par- parking lot, adding sidewalks, and creatties and family gatherings. ing an additional entrance on the northThe facelift is a much welcomed and west side of the park to improve traffic anticipated project for many of its regular flow, which will come in handy. guests including Lithia resident Jinifer Hillsborough County Parks Services Leichner who said, “I love this park. I manager, Kyla Booher confirmed that have great memories growing up as a the park will be closed to the public durteenager visiting this park and as an adult ing the duration of the project from bringing my children here. It is a beautiful Wednesday, February 1, to Friday, park and I am glad the county is putting March 31. the effort into making sure it stays that For information about community way.” projects in Hillsborough County, visit County officials said that the renovawww.hillsboroughcounty.org.

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Page 17

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

Who Was Saint Valentine? History of Romance Valentine’s Day – it’s a time for showing love and appreciation to your significant others. But when did it begin and why? It’s not just a ‘Hallmark’ holiday. Its roots go way back. Just who was Saint Valentine? Officially known as Saint Valentine of Rome, he was a third-century Roman priest. At the time, the Emperor, Claudius II, decided that single men made better soldiers than those who had wives and families, so he banned marriage for young men. Valentine defied Claudius by continuing to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When this was discovered, Claudius ordered that Valentine be put to death. Not much is reliably known, but most agree that St. Valentine was martyred and then buried on the Via Flaminia to the north of Rome. It’s also believed that Valentine’s Day has origins in the Roman holiday Lupercalia, a pagan fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus. According to another legend, an imprisoned Valentine actually sent the first “valentine” greeting after he fell in love with a young girl, possibly his jailor’s daughter. It is alleged that he wrote her a letter signed “From your Valentine,” an expression that is still in use today. At the end of the fifth century, Pope

By Michelle Colesanti

Gelasius declared February 14 as St. Valentine’s Day. It was not until much later, however, that the day became definitively associated with love. Valentine greetings were popular as far back as the middle ages. The oldest known valentine still in existence today was a poem written in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt. It is now part of the manuscript collection of the British Library in London, England. Exchanging hand-made valentines in the Americas probably began in the early 1700s. Esther A. Howland began selling the first mass-produced valentines in America in the 1840’s. She was known as the “Mother of the Valentine,” and made elaborate creations with real lace, ribbons and colorful pictures known as “scrap.” Today, an estimated one billion Valentine’s Day cards are sent each year, We may never know the true story, but Valentine’s Day continues to be one of the most popular of our annual holidays, which only reminds us of how important our loved ones are; something we should carry forward the rest of the year too.

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Page 18 5

Volume 15, Issue 2

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

Get It Listed! Get It SOLD!

Faith In Community Restored By Local Resoration 1 Business Owner

By Nick Nahas

Many people have formances, and they curdreams and aspirations rently attend every Florida of owning their own Gator home game so that company. Dave Adams they can enjoy listening to has fulfilled those the “Pride of the Sunshine” dreams and has thrived Gator Marching Band. along the way. Adams' sense of giving back to the community Restoration 1 of Tampa extends past the local comBay is a locally owned munity. Some of his team and operated small recently went to St. business with roots in Augustine to help with flood the Southeast damage from Hurricane Hillsborough area. Matthew. “It was devastatThe company spePhoto By Dave Adams ing to see house after cializes in the remediaDave Adams purchased the house, and street after tion and restoration of Restoration 1 of Tampa Bay franchise in July of 2016. street of people’s personal residential and compossessions set out to the curb for the mercial properties for damage caused by county to take to the landfill,” said Adams. water, fire, smoke or mold. According to “Not just furniture and carpets, but clothAdams, the company works directly with ing, pictures, books, etc. — things that the customer’s insurance company so could never be replaced. It was just heartthat the customer can focus on getting breaking. To get a heartfelt thank you and their home back to its original state. “Our even hugs from my clients as we worked goal is to help homeowners that may not on and completed their homes was one know where to turn when disaster of the most gratifying experiences of my strikes,” said Adams. professional career.” Family and community are a major The experiences that Adams had emphasis of Adams’ motivations. He has have given him invaluable knowledge worked for both small businesses and about how to handle these disasters large corporations in the same field properly. He emphasizes that insurance before taking a chance of owning and companies want people to act as quickly operating his own business after his as possible to save further damage to youngest son left for college at the their homes. University of Florida. Adams has been “I look forward to one day having married to his wife, Heidi, for 25 years, enough extra time and money that we and they have lived in the Valrico area with their two sons, Zach and Sam, for 22 can give back to the community through volunteer activities and donations.” For years. Adams and his wife spent a lot of information, you can visit www.restoratheir free time watching their sons’ travel tion1.com/tampa-bay/. soccer games and high school band per-

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February 2017

ams For r g e l e T g n Singi Special , y a D ’s e Valentin More… & y r a r b i At L nti, Programs e Colesa hell d by Mic m Compile preyobserver.co s o @ e ll miche

Riverview High School Chorus Delivers a Song for Valentine’s Day

The Riverview High School Choral Department will be selling singing telegrams to raise money for their Choral Department activities. The singing telegrams will be delivered on Valentine's Day from 3:30-5 p.m. in local businesses or from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at a local restaurant. The cost of the singing telegram will be $30 and will include a personalized card and flower upon the delivery of the song. Vocal Valentines are on sale now through February 12 in the community. For purchasing information, call Elizabeth Stewart at 671-5011 ext. 282 or email sharkchorus@gmail.com. The song list selections are as follows. Special song requests are an additional $5. The Way You Make Me Feel Michael Jackson, Lean On Me - Bill Withers, You’ve Got A Friend In Me - Toy Story, Wind Beneath My Wings by Bette Midler, Little Things - One Direction, You Raise Me Up - Josh Groban, Make You Feel My Love - Garth Brooks or Adele, Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran, I Swear - John Montgomery, L-O-V-E - Nat King Cole, Corazon Sin Cara - Prince Royce, My Girl – Temptations, Just The Way You Are - Bruno Mars, All of Me - John Legend, Open Arms – Journey, If I Aint Got You - Alicia Keyes.

WMU-Cooley Law School Awards 43 Juris Doctor Degrees In Winter

The Tampa Bay campus of WMUCooley Law School honored 43 graduates during a commencement ceremony held at the University of South Florida’s Marshal Center in January. During the ceremony, graduate Simone Genus presented the valedictory remarks and WMU-Cooley board chair Larry Nolan

Page 19

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

Sketching with Pencils Tuesday, February 21 from 4-5 p.m. Art instructor Maria Brennan will demonstrate various pencil techniques in this popular class. Complete a drawing project. All levels welcome. For grades 4-8. Limit 12. Registration required at either the Service Desk or by calling 273-3652. Outside the Lines – Coloring for Adults: Tuesday, February 21 from 67:30 p.m. - Think coloring is just for kids? Join the hottest trend for adults. Relieve stress and boost creativity with art, fun and mellow music to help you release your inner artist. Maria Brennan is a local photographer and coloring book artist, shares her talents with the class. Blues in the Library-Saturday, February 25 at 2:30 p.m. – Local Tampa Bay blues musicians from the Suncoast Blues Society will perform popular blues and folk songs. Blues is a vocal and instrumental form of music based on the use of blue notes. Emerging in the Black communities of the US from spirituals, work songs, field hollers, shouts and chants and rhymed simple narrative ballads. The Riverview Library is located at 10509 Riverview Dr. For more information about library programs, which are courtesy of the Friends of Riverview Library and the Kiwanis Terrific Kids At RCMA Wimauma Academy For January Hillsborough Library include: 1st row: Greydis Hernandez, Elba Morales, Luz Cruz, Yiselle Antonio, 2nd row: Andrea Hernandez, Tania Castro, System, call 273Yarivethe Guzman, Jayla Morales, 3rd row: Cristina Martinez, 3652. Yazmin Barrios, Gaby Castro, absent: Aiden Hernandez.

a complete listing presented the keynote. of documents Each class at needed. This proWMU-Cooley bears the gram is in partnername of a distinguished ship with Florida member of the legal Highway Safety profession. The winter and Motor 2017 graduating class Vehicles. is named after Fred The Flying Moore Vinson. Vinson Tortoise – served in the United Wednesday, States legislative, execuFebruary 15 tive, and judicial branches of government. President Simone Genus presents the valedictory from 11-11:30 remarks during WMU-Cooley Law a.m., 4-4:30 Truman appointed Vinson School’s Tampa Bay campus graduation p.m. - Meet as the 13th Chief Justice Mbeku, a very tricky tortoise deterof the United States in 1946. mined to fly like a bird so that he can eat the best food in the jungle. This is 7th Annual South Shore High School a humorous and traditional tale from Art Show At HCC South Shore the Igbo people of Nigeria that shows This Art Show is open to any student how the tortoise got his rough, checkattending Riverview, East Bay, Spoto or ered shell as a consequence of his Lennard High Schools. To apply, visit and cunning. Ages 4 and greediness www.southshoreartscouncil.org/highup. Presented by Creative Arts school-art-exhibit-application. Theatre Company, the City of Deadline is Friday, February 24. Each Tampa’s professional theatre for school’s art program will be awarded young audiences. $200 for participating and an additional $100 for each award their students receive. This Year’s Awards Best of Show: $400 1st Place: $300 2nd Place: $200 3rd Place: $100 People’s choice: $100 4 Honorable Mentions: $75 each. The show will run between March 24 and April 21 with the opening reception on Friday, March 24 from 7-9 p.m. For more information, please contact Michael Park at info@southshoreartscouncil.org or call 846-2000.

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RIVERVIEW - If you're like most homebuyers, you have two primary considerations in mind when you start looking for a home. First, you want to find the home that perfectly meets your needs and desires, and secondly, you want to purchase this home for the lowest possible price. When you analyze those successful home buyers who have been able to purchase the home they want for thousands of dollars below a seller's asking price, some common denominators emerge. While the negotiating skills of your agent are important, there are three additional key factors that must come into play long before you ever submit an offer. This topic has been the subject of extensive analysis by Industry Experts, and a summary of their findings, and a specific step-by-step purchase plan for homebuyers,

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Page 20 5

Volume 15, Issue 2

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

ale, S e g a m m u Plant & R Food Drive ity Commun ore… &M nti, e Colesa

Apollo Beach Woman’s Club Honors Members

both from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Winn Dixie at 4445 SCC Blvd. in Sun City Center and 1023 U.S. Hwy 41 in Ruskin will also serve as drop off points.

At the January meeting of the Apollo Beach Woman’s Club (ABWC) 12 members were honored for their 10 or hell Upcoming Riverview Woman's ic more years of devotion, supM y b d m Compile preyobserver.co Club Luncheons And Events port of and service to @os michelle Monthly Luncheon for Riverview ABWC. Women’s Club will take place Those honored for 10 Wednesday, February 15, March years and their club involvement 15, and April 19 - 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. were: Terry Antiporda, - Monthly luncheon, St. Joseph's Frances Conner, ,Disa Hospital South, Riverview, in the Hjaltason, Lynn Lucido , Riverview Franciscan II Conference room, $15 Carolyn (Seel) Residents Win RSVP by Friday before meetwith Lundy, Grace Free Movie ing. McKee ,Judith Dufault, Passes At Soon Drag Queen Bingo: Includes Judy Motta, and To Open Apollo Beach Woman’s Club honored for 10 years dinner, bingo, cash bar and drag GoodrichCatherine Goodrich Theater of devotion. Front row: Frances Conner, Disa queen show, featuring men from the Gusler. Hjaltason, Lynn Lucido, Seel Lundy Back: Goodrich Membership ($25) in Terry Antiporda, Catherine Goodrich-Gusler, Judy community. Tickets are $40 or $350 Theaters are getConn, Grace McKee. for reserved table with 8 seats. ABWC is open to all ting ready to open Thursday, March 9, 5:30-9:30 p.m. women Businesses Gather For Have A and recently at The Regent, 6437 Watson Rd. in in Apollo Beach and surHeart Food Drive offered free movie Riverview.Contact RiverviewWomansC rounding communities. JSA Medical Group, The passes for one lub@gmail.com. For information contact: Observer News, Winn-Dixie year. Stephen Claudia Gassett at 352Supermarkets in Sun City Center and and Lacie Krantz Stephen and Lacie Krantz recently won free movie passes for one year 258-4580 or email claudiRuskin, and M&M Printing Co. are cowere recent winto Goodrich Theaters, soon to open agassett @me.com. sponsoring a Community-Wide to benners. in Gibsonton. Visit www.apollobeachefit local food banks in the South According to womansclub.com. Shore area through the end of Lacie, “My husband and I are beyond February. All items must be non-perthrilled to win tickets for a year. We Summerfield Community Spring ishable and can include hygiene and have been married 17 years and have Yard Sale baby care items. lived in the Riverview area for five Mark your calendars for Saturday, Local food banks benefiting are: years. My husband (Stephen) is a k9 25 for the 16th Summerfield March RiverStone Church, Calvary Lutheran police officer who spends his days proCommunity Spring Yard Sale from 8 Community Cupboard, The Lord’s tecting Tampa from bombs. I on the Lighthouse, Our Lady of Guadalupe, other hand am a stay at home mom of a.m.-2 p.m. sponsored by the Ladies’ Club. Good Samaritan Mission Beth-El two wonderful girls who I homeschool. Turn clutter and unwanted items Mission, and St. Anne Catholic She is excited to be able to have a Church. weekly date night at the movies. “What into extra dollars. Sell your unwanted Deisy Lopez was the first prize winner items in the spring community yard You can drop of items at two locabetter way to celebrate 17 years of when The Sun City Center Lions Club sale. tions of JSA Medical Group at 787 marriage then seeing a new movie recently sponsored a Peace Poster The cost is $4 in advance and $5 Contest at RCMI Leadership Academy in Cortaro Dr. in Sun City Center and 781 every week for a year. We feel comWimauma. the day of sale (for advertising Cypress Creek Blvd. Sun City Center pletely blessed beyond words.” expenses). To sign up in advance visit Goodrich Theaters are located at the community center, sign the book, 10550 East Bay Rd. in Gibsonton. pay $4 and receive a tag to place on your mailbox. For those unable to pay In Business Over 20 Years Riverview Garden Club Plant & in advance the cost is $5 and ladies Rummage Sale club members On Saturday, will be around to February 25, the collect on the ool! Riverview ean is C l C day of the sale. e r e ...wh Garden Club will As always hold its annual please be Plant & respectful of Rummage sale your neighbors from 8 a.m.-2 when it comes to for first time customers p.m. or until sold parking cars and out. Cash only. do not block Clothing, toys neighbor’s drivejewelry, houseRiverview Garden Club Plant & Rummage Sale. ways or park on hold items, lawns. Traffic is very heavy the day of baked goods and half priced plants will the sale everyone needs to work be available. Admission and parking together to make this a pleasant and are free. It is located at 11020 Park Dr. successful for all homeowners. licensed bonded insured in Riverview.

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Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

The Bridges Offers Retirement Solutions By Kate Quesada

During its also availseven years in able and the Riverview residents area, The have access Bridges to 46 chanAssisted Living nels of telefacility has vision, helped hunphone servdreds of resiice and the dents find their internet. perfect retireEach apartment solution. ment has an “Our resiemergency Residents at The Bridges dents have at Assisted Living Community in call system. Riverview participate in a least one thing “Our large number of recreational in common,” goal is to activities including chair dancsaid encourage ing and yoga. Community our resiRelations Liaison Janet Noah. “They are dents’ independence to enjoy life in a all able to live a joyful and fulfilling life.” beautiful setting with excellent ameniLocated on Bloomingdale Ave. in ties, services and activities,” said Riverview, The Bridges offers a variety Noah. of retirement living options for adults 55 The list of programs offered is years and older, with and without ongolong, but includes chair dancing, ing health care needs. karaoke, craft classes, happy hour, “The community’s trained staff chorus, art classes, chair yoga, brain members, which include licensed nursdancing and Wii bowling. Noah also es available seven days a week, take adds that a special chauffeur service pride in helping each resident and is available for medical appointments ensuring that their every need is met or an afternoon of shopping. A chef with a friendly smile and helping hand. and culinary team prepare fresh, deliFrom managing medications to bathing cious meals three times a day and on and grooming, residents can be Sunday, residents are treated to a assured their care needs will be met,” gourmet meal held in their clubhouse. said Noah. The memory care unit provides Different floor plans are also availstate-of-the-art Alzheimer’s and able to fit residents’ needs, including Dementia-Related Care, using current studios and one and two bedroom/two clinical-based approaches designed bathroom apartments. All spaces have to stimulate residents’ memories and 12 ft. ceilings, refrigerators, microwaves senses. and individual thermostats. Weekly For information, call 413-8900 or housekeeping and laundry services are visit www.BridgesRetirement.com.

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Page 22 5

Volume 15, Issue 2

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

Drag Queen Bingo Raises Funds For Women’s Club

By Kate Quesada

What could believes it is be better than a a show not night of great to be entertainment for missed. a great cause? “Some The Riverview people Women’s Club squirm (RWC) has when they hear the organized just words Drag that with its Drag Queen Queen Bingo Bingo,” she event taking said. “But place Thursday ours is nothMarch 9, at The ing like Regent in The Riverview Women’s Club is hosting a Drag Queen what they Riverview. Bingo event to raise money for scholarships for local may think. The women on March 9 at The Regent in Riverview. Our particievening of fun, pants are well respected business men which starts when doors open at 5:30 and women who are very passionate p.m., includes a catered dinner, cash bar, about their community. They are continu10 games of bingo and entertainment ally giving back, even when that means from local business men and women in wearing a dress.” costume. Tickets are available to the show for Funds from the event benefit the RWC’s Scholarship Fund, which last year $40 a person or $350 for a table of eight. Dinner will be provided by Coastal gave five local students $1,000 scholarCatering. Many sponsorship opportunities ships. are still available for the event which is “All the money raised at the event anticipated to attract more than 450 stays in the community to help students guests. attend a school of higher education,” said “The memories I have of my previous Melissa Hartmann, RWC vice president. bingo nights are priceless,” said “This year we hope to be able to exceed Hartmann, who is co-chairing the event last year’s five scholarships and be able with Robin Richter. “The show was fanto provide funds to a local woman who is tastic. So fantastic that we raised just shy hoping to go back to college.” of $6,000 in four hours.” According to Hartmann, bingo winFor more information, call Hartmann ners will receive a prize from a local busiat 833-7470. The Regent is located at ness including Pinot’s Palette, The Alley, 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. To purLu La Roe, The Osprey Observer and a chase tickets, visit www.riverviewwomenvariety of restaurants and spas. sclub.org. As for the entertainment, Hartmann

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Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

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Page 24 5

Riverview/ Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 15, Issue 2

Riverview/Apollo Beach

February 2017

Volume 15, Issue 2

Ph: 657-2418

InThis Section

CHALKLINES....................................PG 28 PRODUCT AWARD ..........................PG 31 APOLLO BEACH LIVING............PGS 36‐38 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT...............PG 41

SPORTS CONNECTION ....................PG 42 STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL..................PG 43

New Owners Celebrate Grand Reopening Of Nail Holics

A ribbon cutting was held for the grand reopening of Nail Holics Spa Grand which is under new ownership. It provides SNS, Gel, Pedicure, Holistic Medical Care Clinic is now located at 205 W. Morgan St. in Brandon. Manicure, Acrylic, A Country Cat House earns include hyperbaric oxygen therapy Angie’s List Super Service Waxing, Facials, Award. (HBOT) for wound care after plastic Eyelash 654-2287 or visit or C-section scar recovery or surgery review site Extensions, http://acountrycathousetampa.com/ind A ribbon cutting was recently held for Nail Holics. brain neurogenesis; Prolozone/PRP in 2016. Microblading (perex2.html. therapy for quick back/shoulder or This manent make up for eyebrows, certiachievement is particularly significant fied, licensed and insured). It is the Holistic Medical Care Clinic Moves sports injury repair without the need for surgery; and Ultra-violet, intraas Angie’s List experienced unpreceonly nail salon in Riverview that does To New State Of The Art Location venous (UV-IV) light therapy for hard dented member growth in 2016. More Microblading by Anna Tran, who has In Brandon to treat viral/bacterial infections; and 18 years experience and still passion- than 1.6 million consumers, many of Holistic Medical Care Clinic LLC Vit C IV ozone treatment as a complewhom were eager to quickly hire highate in what she does. Nail Holics is now has a new central location in mentary cancer treatment, among othly qualified service pros, joined Angie’s located at 6427 US Hwy. 301 S. in Brandon, serving all of Tampa Bay. ers. List after the company added a new, Riverview. Call 677-4222 for an Located at 205 W. Morgan St. in Office Manager Sunny Sia said, free membership tier. appointment. Brandon, Holistic Medical Care Clinic “We’ve been successfully healing Angie’s List Super Service Award Visit www.NailHolicsSpa.com. will still offer best of class, excellent patients for the past three years at our 2016 winners have met strict eligibility medical care utilizing integrative mediApollo Beach location and needed a requirements, which include an “A” A Country Cat House Earns cine, a blend of conventional/Western bigger space to house our new state rating in overall grade, recent grade, Esteemed 2016 Angie’s List Super medicine and complementary theraof the art ETC Bara-med XD hyperbarand review period grade. The SSA Service Award pies. It is a healing-oriented medicine ic oxygen chamber which will be on winners must also be in good standA Country Cat House has earned that considers the whole person, commission by the end of February.” ing with Angie’s List, pass a backthe home service industry’s coveted including all aspects of lifestyle and New patients are currently being ground check and abide by Angie’s Angie’s List Super Service Award, emphasizes natural healing methods accepted. Please call 398-0470 or List operational guidelines. reflecting an exemplary year of cusvs. pharmaco/chemical-based, invavisit http://holisticmedicalcare.net. A Country Cat House is located at tomer service to members of the local sive treatment modality. 15501 Boyette Rd. in Riverview. Call Continued on next page services marketplace and consumer Alternative natural procedures

Page 26

Business Column Continued.............

By Michelle Colesanti

Dr. Sasha Noe Receives Physician Of The Year Award For 2016

South Shore’s very own Dr. Sasha Noe, was awarded Physician of the Year by the Hillsborough County Osteopathic Society (HCOMS) for 2016. She has been a resident of the Tampa Bay Area for the past 22 years and has lived in and served her community in the South Shore Region and surrounding cities for the last 15 years. She has received numerous local, regional and national awards in her career in research, academia and medicine and currently serves as the President of the Hillsborough County Osteopathic Medical Society and the Public Relations Committee for the American Colleges of Osteopathic Family Physicians. She is the owner of Apollo Beach Family Medical Center and Direct Family Care, LLC which is the first Direct Primary Care practice in Southern Hillsborough County. For more information, visit www.directfamilycare.com or on follow her on social media @DrSashaNoe

Dave and Susan Ackley New Franchise Owners For Cruise Planners

Dave and Susan Ackley have joined Cruise Planners, the nation’s largest home-based travel agent franchise network in the industry. The Ackleys’ now offer travelers exclusive pricing on a wide range of cruise and destination wedding packages, private cruise sales, as well as cabin upgrades and special amenities such as shore excursions, discounted fares, travel gifts and more. As a Cruise Planners travel advisor, they also provide specialized land vacation and tour packages to the most sought-after destinations around the world. “As a Cruise Planners franchise, we sell complete vacation packages from exotic getaways to romantic retreats and culturally-immersive European experiences to customized African safaris and of course cruises,” Susan Ackley said. “Some people want to go on a cruise one year, and then a land-based vacation the next – we offer them a one-stop-shop with a personalized touch.”

Volume 15, Issue 2

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Cruise Planners offers special programs for both American Express card holders and non-card holders, offering even more added value to vacationers.

Grand Re-Opening Of Phoenix House Expands Capacity To Treat Substance Use Disorders

Phoenix House Florida hosted a ceremonial ribbon cutting celebrating the grand re-opening of its recently renovated outpatient facility for adolescents and adults in December 2016. The Heartwood Campus is located at 510 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon. A reception followed the ceremony and tours were available throughout the afternoon. “To best meet the increased demand for treatment throughout Hillsborough County, Phoenix House’s location in this multifaceted medical complex allows us to double our treatment capacity as well as to expand our hours and programs to meet the unprecedented need for access to treatment by the diverse population we serve,” said Clinical Director Sonya Bufe. Phoenix House is committed to promoting long-term health throughout our communities for individuals struggling with substance use disorders through an approach focused on all aspects of wellness−from prevention to recovery to physical fitness to emotional and psychological wellbeing. Heartwood Campus’s location in this medical complex provides patients with access to additional healthcare resources and reinforces the fact that substance use disorder is a treatable biological brain disease from which patients can recover, while also reducing the stigma often associated with the disorder. Phoenix House Heartwood Campus provides evidence-based outpatient and intensive outpatient substance use treatment to adolescents and adults, including whole health and wellness activities. Services available include: comprehensive assessment; individual, group, and family counseling; psychoeducational therapy groups; case management; life-skills education; drug testing and recreational activities that teach people ways to have fun while sober. CARF-accredited pro-

grams offer individualized treatment protocols utilizing evidence-based practices to meet the needs of each patient. For more information, visit www.phoenixhouse.org/locations/florida/brandon-center/ or call 844-5172382.

Doretha Edgecomb to be Honored at YMCA Signature Event

On Saturday, February 11 from 4-9 p.m., Jen's Market and Little Harbor Resort/Harborside Suites will host the Chocolate & Vine Outdoor Market at

Former Hillsborough County School Board Member Doretha Edgecomb will receive the Tampa Metropolitan Area YMCA’s 2017 Community Impact Award on Thursday, February 16 at 6 p.m. The Regions Community Impact Dinner will be emceed by 10 News WTSP News Anchor Reginald Roundtree at the Pepin’s Hospitality Centre at 4121 N. 50th St. in Tampa. Nearly 500 guests will enjoy dinner, awards presentations and videos showcasing the

536 Bahia Beach Dr. in Ruskin. The event will be along the cobblestone walkway between Harborside Suites and the Marina, overlooking the water and beach sunset. There will be live music by Frank Hewlett featuring songs from the 60's to 90's. Over 50 vendors with arts, crafts, coastal decor, resort style apparel, natural bath and body products can make your valentine easy to shop for. Grab a bite to eat from one of the food concessions; Sunset Grill will have a cash bar for drinks too. Pick up some fresh/flash frozen fish and seafood for your valentine dinner - so don't forget a cooler. The event and parking are free.

Tampa YMCA’s real impact on community members. The Tampa YMCA recognizes and thanks Doretha for her dedication and positive impact on Tampa Bay residents. Previous recipients of the Community Impact Award include Richard Gonzmart, Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn, Hillsborough County Commissioners Ken Hagan and Sandra Murman, former Florida CFO Alex Sink, former Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio and former Hillsborough County Superintendent MaryEllen Elia. To make a donation and RSVP for the Regions Community Impact Dinner, contact virginia.liddell@tampaymca.org or 224-9622 ext. 1281.

Little Harbor Resort Hosts Chocolate & Vine Outdoor Market

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February 2017

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

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Volume 15, Issue 2

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Story by Tamas Mondovics

Kindergarten Roundup, Excellence In Education Awards Finalists & More Hillsborough County Public Schools Hold A Kindergarten Round Up Period For 2017-2018 School Year

Families interested in enrolling their child in their assigned, attendance area school should attend the Kindergarten Round Up event scheduled for that school. Area schools hosting the event in February and March includes Lithia Springs Elementary on Thursday, February 9 from 5:30-7 p.m., Stowers Elementary on Thursday, February 16 from 6-7:30 p.m. and Bevis Elementary on Wednesday, March 8 from 5:30-7 p.m. Parents who attend are encouraged to bring their child’s birth certificate, health and home address documentation to register their child for kindergarten. Parents unable to attend the Round Up are encouraged to enroll their child in to school by the end of June. Families can apply directly online for School Choice and magnet options by visiting www.sdhc.k12.fl.us and searching “Go Choice.” For a detailed list of Kindergarten Round Ups and a list of accepted documentation for enrollment, parents should visit the district website at www.sdhc.k12.fl.us and see the “Kindergarten Round Up” infor-

schools within the district have earned the Five Star School Award Instructional Support Employee of the Year Finalists for the 2015-16 school year by the • Nancy Alexander, Wimauma Elementary School Florida Department of Education. • Terranique Ragins, Franklin Boys Preparatory School Statewide nearly 700 schools were • Roma Soogrim-EsteMcDonald, Muller Elementary Magnet School recognized. Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator of the Year Finalists Some of the local elementary • Olivia Williams Holcombe, Colson Elementary schools recognized included Bevis, • Aaron Lee Berry, Alonso High School FishHawk Creek, Cimino, Lithia • Pedro Castrejon, Jefferson High School Springs, Pinecrest, Stowers, along Teacher of the Year Finalists with Randall Middle and Newsome • Carrie D. Donatelli, Turner Bartels K- 8 High, just to name a few. • Katerina M. Pawloski, Tinker K-8 Florida’s Education • Lauren Schnebly Hackworth, Mitchell Elementary School Commissioner, Pam Stewart, said • Maria Torres-Crosby, Memorial Middle School that the involvement of the community • Elizabeth Walker, Spoto High School and family are critical to the success • Cathelyn Gregoire, Armwood High School of students. “I am grateful for the parents, mation on the home page. For more the Year. caregivers and information, contact Terrie DodsonThe finalists community Caldevilla at 272-4048. were notified of the members who news in surprise visinvest their District Announces 2017 Excellence its earlier this month time in our In Education Awards Finalists at their school and state’s were joined by Hillsborough County Public Schools schools,” Superintendent officials were pleased to post the Stewart said. Eakins, School names of twelve finalists of the 2017 To gain the Board Members, Excellence in Education Awards. Five-Star Hillsborough District officials explained that each School recogniEducation year, all area schools nominate the top tion, a school Foundation, sponcandidates for three categories, includmust show sors and school dising, the Ida S. Baker Diversity Educator achievement in trict staff. of the Year, Instructional Support all of benchThe winners will Employee of the Year and Teacher of mark areas as School “C” has been named after Warren well as in five be announced at the Hope Dawson. Awards ceremony specific cateplanned for Tuesday, February 28 at gories, including volunteerism and the David A. Straz Jr. Center for the family involvement. Performing Arts. The school must also receive a grade of a “C” or better, or a satisfacHCPS Schools Recognized As Five tory improvement rating for the year Star Schools being recognized. For the list of Hillsborough County Public schools in Hillsborough County that Schools officials were pleased to received the honor, visit www. announce that more than 90 of the fldoe.org/newsroom/latestnews.

Finalists For Excellence In Education Awards:

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Day Of Retreat At Prince Of Peace

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

City Center is located at 1210 Del Webb Blvd W. in Sun City Center. Visit www.sccumc.com/.

Residents were enjoying dinner with their family members when the pirates invaded handing out beads and talking with the residents. Attending the event were this year’s KSSM Queen, Ann

Acclaimed Organist Visiting United Methodist Church In Sun City Center

The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, 1210 Del Webb Blvd. West, welcomes Dr. Dale F. Voelker in concert Sunday, February 12 at 3 p.m. Dr. Voelker co-founded the Washington Kantorei while head of the music department at Washington Bible College (MD). Since 1996 he has been Professor of Music at Judson

On January 11, nearly 100 parishioners gathered at Prince of Peace to partake in a Day of Retreat. This event consisted of seven sessions, each about a different style of prayer, such as Meditating with Scripture, Praying with Sacred Art, and Prayer 101. Parishioners chose four sessions to attend and rotated In January nearly 100 parishioners gathered at Prince of Peace to participate in a Day of Retreat. through, experiencing a taste of each style. Presenters were Fr. Joel Kovanis and Fr. Augustine Mailadiyil, Deacon Patrick Frye, Sister Diane Wansley, OSB, and parishioners Barb Caleca, Fulvia Fiorani, Tom Vormwaldt, and Luke Amato. Attendees remarked numerous times about how grateful they were for this opporDr. Dale Voelker in concert at United Methodist Church tunity to grow in in Sun City. their faith, how University in Elgin, IL, where he has dynamic the presentations were, and also served as Chairman of the how they would like another retreat Division of Music. A choral conductor day with even longer sessions. and organist much in demand in the Thank you to all who participated. Midwest, he has also taken his choirs to Europe, Brazil and Jamaica. In The United Methodist Church of addition to teaching responsibilities, he Sun City Center has new service also researches music of the 17th and times as follows: 18th centuries and has edited a num8 a.m. -Contemporary Service, ber of works for Concordia and Life Enrichment Center, 9 a.m. Morningstar Music. Traditional Service, Sanctuary, 10 Dr. Voelker has also given recitals a.m. - Contemporary Service, Life and worked with choral groups in Enrichment Center, 11 a.m. Scandanavia, and studied choral conTraditional Service, Sanctuary and 4 ducting with Wilhelm Ehmann and p.m. - Hispanic Service, Life Frauke Haasemann of the Enrichment Center. There is free Westphalian Church Music School in nursery available for all services. Herford, Germany. Dr. Voelker previUnited Methodist Church of Sun

ously headed the choral, organ and music departments at the Universities of Vermont, Middle Tennessee, and Central Florida. He is also an expert in 20th century organ literature, and will The South Shore Marauders Krewe surprised Hawthorne Village residents during their Gasparilla themed dinner in perform both Baroque January. and 20th Century works Strawser and King, Barron Lynn along in this special concert. with 14 other members of the Krewe. A donation of $10 is requested at the door on the day of the concert. For more Help For Quitting Tobacco information, please contact Kevin Quitting tobacco isn't easy. Finding Goodenow, Concert Series Coordinator, help should be. Tobacco Free Florida at 362-0956. To learn more about the offers free tools and services to help you United Methodist Church of Sun City cenget started. Free Community worksite ter, please visit www.umcscc.org. and clinic groups will be offered, with proResidents Of Hawthorne Inn Assisted grams covering all forms of tobacco. Free Nicotine replacement patches, gum and Living Surprised By Krewe During lozenges will be available, while supplies Gasparilla Themed Dinner last and if medically appropriate. Locally, The Krewe of the South Shore classes will be available on Monday, Marauders (KSSM) surprised the resiFebruary 20 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at dents of Hawthorne Inn Assisted Living Oakfield Medical Plaza, 276 S. Moon during their Gasparilla themed dinner in Ave., Ste. 260 in Brandon, and Tuesday, January. The surprise was set up by February 28 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Kristen Calta, administrator, at Hawthorne Bloomingdale Regional Library, 1906 Inn Assisted Living, who is also a memAve. in Valrico. Bloomingdale ber of the Krewe of the South Shore Pre-registration is required by calling Marauders along with the KSSM Vice 974-7889 or visit President of Socials and Fundraising, www.ahectobacco.com. Ann Strawser.

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Volume 15, Issue 2

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Go For The Green With The 23rd Annual Riverview Chamber Golf Tournament The Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 23rd Annual Golf Tournament on Saturday, February 25 at Summerfield Crossings Golf Club located at 13050 Summerfield Blvd. in Riverview. Registration, lunch and midway will begin at 10:30 a.m. A shotgun start begins at 12:30 p.m. A sumptuous dinner will be held at 5:30 p.m. Between 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m., you can visit with chamber vendors along the midway. This is open to the public for no charge. You will not want to miss the Bryan Hindman Electric Ball Drop at 12 p.m. This is always a fun activity for all who attend. To play, individuals are just $87 and foursomes are just $367, if paid before February 8. After that date, individuals are $97 and foursomes are $417. The chamber needs sponsors. You can get involved for as low as $60 for a green sign. Funds raised from the golf tournament help support the chamber's community projects and operating expenses. Tonya Doran, Executive a Director of the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce said, "Everyone should sign

By Kathy L. Collins

up or sponsor the golf tournament simply to have fun as this is one of our core values here at the Greater Riverview Chamber of Commerce." Doran added, Greater Riverview "We serve to Chamber of Commerce's Annual create a family Golf Tournament will environment bw held at that ensures Summerfield Crossings Golf Club in Riverview. the success of our community, our businesses and our members. Our core values are leadership, teamwork, diversity, integrity and fun." This tournament promises to be a lot of fun. There w I'll be lots of prizes, raffle items and a live auction during dinner. Items that will be available during the tournament include a sunset cruise with Captain Oliver O'Riordan, owner of Tampa Fishing Charters which is located out of Little Harbor Resort in Ruskin. This is valued at $250. In addition, there will be items such as a "high end" toilet valued at $670, donated by Olin Plumbing. To register for the 23rd Annual Golf Tournament, visit www.riverviewchamber.com, call 234-5944 or email info@riverviewchamber.com. You can always stop by the chamber office located at 10012 Water Works Lane in Riverview between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

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Page 31

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Superior Residences Andrew Brings Home International Award For Product Creativity

By Kate Quesada

Do you have a side was that you friend or loved one had to open the lid who suffers with to determine how dementia? If so, the much had been conproduct that recently sumed, thus agitatwon Superior ing the patient. Also, Residences of straws can be a challenge. We wantBrandon an award ed a way to deterfrom Promotional mine the amount of Products Association consumption without International (PPAI) disturbing the might be of interest patient.” to you. McNeill found Superior the solution to her Residences Senior Jill Andrew of Superior Residences of Brandon and Jerry McNeill with Vernon problem with a mood Solution Expert Jill MacGraves Promotions recently won first Andrew submitted a place in the Health and Wellness catego- bottle provided by water bottle provided ry of the PPAI Pyramid Awards for cre- HIT. The bottle starts ative use of a promotional product. out clear white and to her by Jerry turns red when cold or ice liquid is used. McNeill of Vernon MacGraves “The white bottle turned red to the Promotions, Inc. to the PPAI Pyramid level of the contents so it was easy for Awards which recognize creative use of the caregiver to see from afar how much promotional products because she was consumed,” said Andrew. noticed it changes the lives of patients Andrew and McNeill’s collaboration with dementia. was enough to impress the judges at the “I needed a product that would PPAI Pyramid Awards. They gave the ensure that patients with dementia were use of the bottle first place in their award consuming adequate liquids and that recognizing creative use of a promotionhad ease of use,” said Andrew. al product. Andrew did some research and “This has turned into tremendous found a study from a group at Boston University that determined that someone spin-off for both of us,” said McNeill. “Jill now uses the bottle for her trade show with Alzheimers, which is a type of giveaways, her gifts to residents and dementia, will eat 25 percent more food caregivers and a show and tell item duroff a red plate. She went further and ing guest lecture events.” found that a patient with dementia will For information, contact Andrew at drink up to 87 percent more out of a red 657-8587. Superior Residences is locatcup. ed at 1819 Providence Ridge Blvd. Visit “We originally used a red cup with a www.superioralf.com. lid and straw,” said Andrew. “The down-

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Page 32

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 15, Issue 2

My Social Spa Brings Good Clean Fun Night Out To Boca & River Hills Events

HCPS School Security Services Seek Support For Third Annual Golf Tourney

ories and handmade spa items. Since opening, the Spa has held over 20 events and assisted in creating over 800 bath bombs including seasonal scents like pumpkin and gingerbread. “We wanted to continue our expertise in entertainment and noticed people really My Social Spa offers a fun night out where participants create scented bath bombs, sugar body scrubs, and other fun, wanted experiences, so fresh and natural skin pampering products. we brought together the craze of do-it-yourself, Riverview welcomes some good without the hassle, to fun and trendy clean fun for Ladies’ Night Out and places like the bar,” Heruska explained. Mom and Me events. It’s called My Social Spa, and it has participants glow- “For a busy mom of three, it was a match made in heaven.” ing. Monthly events are presently held My Social Spa, founded by Valrico at Boca Restaurant in Winthrop and the residents Laura and Rich Heruska, River Hills Country Club in Riverview. offers a fun night out where participants create scented bath bombs, sugar body Private parties and large events are also available. scrubs, and other fun, fresh and natural The business is growing. Heruska skin pampering products. No experiexplained, “We see this expanding in ence is necessary, and all materials are local bars, restaurants, and country provided including the use of the signaclubs.” ture turquoise aprons. The Mom & Me event will be held at Prior to opening the Spa in 2016, the River Hills location on Sunday, the couple owned AirHeads Trampoline February 12, and the 21 and up Ladies’ Arena, a growing chain of Family Night event will take place at Boca Entertainment Centers. The idea for the do-it-yourself social spa emerged from a Restuarant on Tuesday, February 21. Tickets for the monthly events are desire to change the way friends come together. Employees, called “Sparistas,” $29.95 per person. Tickets for Mom & Me events are $49.95 COMBO, which do the behind the scenes work of is admission for a parent and child. preparing ingredients and gathering Registration on Facebook, www.facesupplies, allowing participants to socialbook.com/MySocialSpa or by visiting ize, partake in fresh food and $5 drinks, MySocialSpa.com/events. and enjoy laughter while creating mem-

Hillsborough cal staff hopes to County Public see all who are Schools (HCPS) able and willing to School Security support the event, Services is gearto enjoy a great ing up to host its day of great golf Third Annual and good times at Hillsborough a fantastic golfing HCPS School Security Services is seeking County School venue. players and support for its Third Annual Security Golf Raffle and Hillsborough County School Security Golf Tournament. Tournament. auction prizes as According to HCPS School Security well as contests including the longest officials, the 4-person scramble format drive, closest to the pin, putting and hole event now is the department’s way to in one contests are all on the menu. bring the community together for a day to “Our goal is to establish this golfing play the sport they love, while giving back event as an annual endeavor for years to to the community by means of raising come,” Newman said, while emphasized money for the students they serve. that all proceeds will go toward the HCPS “This is our way of giving back to the Security Services Sunshine Fund, which community, as we raise money for scholfinances a variety of training needs and arships, support our students during the honor guard ceremonial events not to holidays and helping them with a wide mention the potential scholarship opporvariety of school supplies including tablets tunities. Registration is from 12 p.m. and laptop computers,” said HCPS 12:45 p.m. as Tee Time is scheduled for Security Services Corporal and event 1 p.m. Shotgun. Abruzzese said the tourorganizer Robert Abruzzese. ney is limited to the first 144 players to The tourney scheduled for Monday, join the festivities while supporting the March 27 at The Claw at USF Golf Club, students and department. located on 46th St., just north of Fletcher Tournament entry fees are: $85 per Ave. raises money for the department’s person, 4-some discount price of $300 Honor Guard, which represents the state and includes golf cart, greens fees, bevand the community. erages and dinner. Dress code applies “The HCPS School Security are and consists of collared shirts, no denims committed to providing the best service or cutoffs, and soft spikes only. and security for all students, staff and visiChecks are payable to Security tors to the nearly 300 campuses,” said Services and mailed to Bob Abruzzese HCPS Security Services Chief, John C/O Security Services, 2920 North 40th Newman. St. Tampa, FL 33605. For information call Newman added that department’s 623-3996 or visit officers along with its command and cleri- security.services@sdhc.k12.fl.us.

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Page 33

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

McAuley Fine Jewelry Opens In Brandon

By Michelle Caceres

Martin’s His jourJewelers, the ney to the jewiconic store that elry trade has served the wound Brandon area for through other 62 years, has professions. shuttered its “I’ve sold doors. Customers things from looking for the insurance to same level of appliances, superior craftsMcAuley Fine Jewelry (formerly Martin’s Jewelers) but was miserowner Ed McAuley is prepared to continue the lega- able because manship will be cy of fine jewelry craftsmanship. pleased to learn these were that McAuley Fine Jewelry will continue in things customers had to buy,” said its place, with many of the same staff McAuley. ready to provide the superior level of Lutz resident Michelle Townsend was service and workmanship that Martin’s referred to McAuley when she was in the customers have come to expect from the market for a piece of custom jewelry. Her store. mother, who passed away in 2004, had These include watch repairman Mike left her several pieces of jewelry and she Martin (Joe’s cousin), who has more than wanted to use them to create a wedding 33 years’ experience, store manager Don ring set for her anniversary. Korte, a local artisan with 46 years’ expe“Ed was able to take the idea that rience, Rob Comfort, a third generation was in my head and construct it into a master jeweler with more than 37 years’ tangible thing,” she said. experience (17 of those at Martin’s Townsend was so pleased she’s Jewelers) that specializes in custom already thinking about her next custom pieces, Seudatt “Deo” Gajadhar, a bench piece. ‘McAuley Fine Jewelry specializes jeweler with more than 50 years’ experiin custom design work and is definitely ence (18 with Martin’s) and an accomthe store I will be turning to,” she complished goldsmith, Wayne Simmons, mented. The shop also specializes in jewwhose 31 years’ experience is reflected in elry repairs. his outstanding work and Pam Simmons “Martin’s was so successful for so (Joe’s daughter), who has been in the long because customers trusted us to business for 15 years. take care of their jewelry that same way McAuley Fine Jewelry, located at 664 we would take care of our mom’s,” said Oakfield Dr. in the Atlantic Village McAuley. McAuley Fine Jewelry is open Shopping Center on the corner of Kings Tuesday to Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Ave. and Oakfield Dr., is owned by Ed Saturday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. McAuley, who spent a decade as Visit www.mcauleyfinejewelry.com, Martin’s’ assistant manager before taking call 689-8124 or visit its Facebook page over the mantle of owner. at McAuley Fine Jewelry.

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Page 34

Volume 15, Issue 2

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

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The Community Foundation Of Tampa Bay Distributes Grants That Focus On Art And Culture

By Kathy L. Collins

February flats. If generally you are marks struggling, change in the water Tampa Bay. is clear – Our weather spend patterns are some time inconstant at looking best and the around fishing can your fishsometimes ing areas be tough. In and try to saying that, see this be sure to fish. Most plan your of the trips accordtime, you ingly and can spin most imporaround tantly – be and fish safe. Expect the area Nate Purcell, with a healthy “winter” Snook caught fishing a warmer day in Tampa Bay with Capt. Travis Yaeckel. to have some you saw cold and windy days this month, but them and be successful. Also, don’t be don’t be afraid to get out and do some afraid to get out of the boat and wade. fishing. Rivers, creeks, residential Redfish will get in very shallow water, canals, and wind protected bays may sometimes too shallow for even the be your best bet. smallest draft boats. One of my favorite Snook have finally made their way things to do is hop out with a few artifito winter-time refuge areas and we have cial lures and cover large flats on the been catching them in great numbers in lower tides. our local rivers. The Hillsborough, Palm, Trout fishing has picked up substanAlafia, and Little Manatee Rivers are all tially. We have been very successful excellent choices this time of year for fishing deep water canals and bends in the “Linesiders”. If you can get some the river systems for slot fish. A large live bait (Pilchards or Pinfish) they will shrimp or live bait on the bottom has come to party. However, a stop at the produced several limit days on my charlocal bait shop for some shrimp will also ters. On the other hand, the larger work. On the colder days, the fish will “Gator” Trout have been lying in the be less active and sometimes take a sand holes on the flats mixed in with the free-lined or bottom fished shrimp better Redfish and Mullet. Early morning, try than a live bait. Focus on “swash” throwing a top water plug and as the points where the current flow is the sun comes up switch to a soft plastic best. Another great place to look is with a HookUp Lures ¼ oz jig head for muddy bottom canals or seawalls. best results. Snook will use these areas to stage up and stay warm. Captain Travis Yaeckel is a native resiRedfish aren’t near as temperamendent of the SouthShore area and charters tal to the colder temps. In fact, in my full time for Redfish, Snook, Trout, and opinion, they like it. You will find them Tarpon. He is owner and operator of Instinct Fishing Co.,based out of lower Tampa Bay. lurking on the shallow flats, even on the To book a charter, call 830-FISH or visit coldest days. They will forage on www.fishbyinstinct.com. Catch him on shrimp, crabs, and small bait fish until Tampa Fishing Outfitters Radio Show on spring. Look for schools of mullet and Sunday mornings from 8-9 a.m. at 1040 target the edges of sandbars and a.m. Sports Talk the Team. troughs if you can’t find them on open

the RCMA Leadership Academy in Wimauma. Heather Hanson and Mark Haggett from the RCMA Wimauma Academy and RCMA Leadership Academy said, “Offering arts education to our students is critical to their educational and emotional growth.” Many grants target just elementary students. However, this program is for The South Shore Arts Council provides high in middle school. students school students who wish to pursue art in higher The South Shore Arts Council learning, with recognition and the ability to win cash prizes thanks to a grant from the received a grant in the amount of Community Foundation of Tampa Bay. $3,725 for its High School Art The Community Foundation of Exhibition. “South Shore area schools Tampa Bay has announced that nearly can be overlooked in certain program$65,000 in grants was given to organizaming aspects, but this exhibit gives an tions that focus on increasing accessibility opportunity to our local high school stuto the arts and culture. Several organizadents to showcase their talents to the tions in the South Shore area are lucky community,” said Michael Parker, presirecipients of the funds. This will allow for dent of the South Shore Arts Council. greater accessibility to the arts and cul“This grant from the Community ture in south Hillsborough County. Foundation allows us to bring together The grants range from community students that are serious about pursuing theatre groups and orchestras to arts art, and provides cash awards to the wincouncils. The organizations have deep ning students and funds to their school for roots in the community, and they will promuch needed art supplies and activities,” vide valuable programs and cultural conadded Parker. nections for children and parents. The Pelican Players, a community The Straz Center received a signifitheatre group of 300 volunteer members cant grant for its Arts Education located in Sun City Center, received Partnership Program. This makes art $20,000 for the installation of a portable available to students in kindergarten sound system. through 12th grade. The Straz Center For more information on the partners with organizations such as the Community Foundation of Tampa Bay, Firehouse Cultural Center in Ruskin and please visit www.cftampabay.org.

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New Stingray Touch Experience Opens To The Public At TECO Manatee Viewing Center

Staff Report

The Florida Aquarium has collaborated with Tampa Electric Co. (TECO) to open a new stingray touch experience at the Manatee Viewing Center (MVC) in Apollo Beach. “TECO has been a wonderful partner of ours for years, and we’re excited to work together on this new guest experience that will educate and connect people with the natural environment,” said The Florida Aquarium’s President and CEO Thom Stork. “They continue to be a strong community supporter of the Aquarium and our commitment to protect and restore the blue planet starting right here in Tampa Bay.” Through safe interactions, onsite educators, and informative graphics, hundreds of thousands of manatee viewers can enjoy meeting other critical animal species that rely on a healthy Tampa Bay ecosystem. The newly constructed 10,000-gallon stingray exhibit is the new winter home for more than a dozen of the Aquarium’s stingrays, including cownose and southern species, that

A new stingray touch experience has recently opened at the Manatee Viewing Center in Apollo Beach.

reside in the outfield touch exhibit at the Tampa Bay Rays’ Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg during summer baseball season. Moving the rays across the Bay in 600-gallon transport carriers complete with life support, required two trips, 12 staff members and a veterinarian. “The stingrays arrived safely and are all acclimating well to their new home,” reported the Aquarium’s Director of Animal Husbandry Mike Terrell. “Thanks to the elaborate infrastructure TECO provided, this new habitat is state-of-the-art and has allowed us to create an environment that is safe, enriching and well-suited to stingray behavior.”

The habitat uses advanced monitoring technology that Aquarium biologists can access online at any time, from anywhere. They can view current oxygen levels, as well as the system’s pump and filtration status from any computer or smart phone. “The life-support system comprises more than a half a mile of pipe,” added Terrell. The Aquarium will provide aroundthe-clock care for the animals including a staff veterinarian and four biologists who observe the animals, feed them and provide proactive health monitoring. The rays eat squid, capelin and smelt, about 100 pounds of food a week for all the animals in the habitat. This new experience comes just in time to welcome the five-millionth visi-

tor to the center, which experiences an influx of West Indian manatees that seek out the clean, warm water discharge canal of Tampa Electric’s Big Bend Power Station when the water temperature of Tampa Bay is 68 degrees or colder. The stingray touch experience adds another key element to the Florida Conservation and Technology Center, a conservation and education site shared among The Florida Aquarium, TECO and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). This interactive, science, technology, engineering and math (STEM)-based living classroom is aimed at educating students and showcasing environmental conservation efforts being spearheaded by all three organizations. TECO’s Manatee Viewing Center is located at 6990 Dickman Rd. in Apollo Beach. It is open now through April 15 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. The observation tower and trails close at 4 p.m.

MiraBay To Host Sixth Annual Dragon Boat Races

By Debra Massaro

Firehouse Cultural Center Presents 2017 Spurs & Bling Gala Fundraiser

By Kathy L. Collins

tually grew into wanting to host the races,” Adkins said. The MiraBay Dragon Boat Festival will take place The festival hosted 17 teams on Saturday, March 4 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. during the 2016 event, and The 2017 sixth annual MiraBay Adkins hopes to see more involvement Dragon Boat Festival will take place this year. Racing classes are varied to on Saturday, March 4 from 9 a.m. to 2 include youth, women, senior, commup.m. at 428 Mira Bay Blvd. in Apollo nity festival mixed, corporate festival Beach. mixed, club mixed, and BCS. In addiRowing participants from across tion to the races, visitors can enjoy the state will come together to enjoy food trucks, music, and family friendly some healthy competition at the home activities such as a plank challenge of the Leviathans Dragon Racing and bounce house. Local merchants Team. The race will consist of two 200m races, two 450m races, and one from areas such as Lithia, Brandon, Lakeland, and St. Petersburg will offer 2000m race. The team with the highattendees a chance to experience est combined points from each race locally sourced goods such as fashion wins. Trophies and medals will be accessories, bath and beauty prodawarded. ucts, and free Tampa Bay Brewing Dragon Boat teams typically conCompany beer samples at the sist of 20-22 paddlers, one drummer MiraBay Market. MiraBay Clubhouse or caller and one sweep (steers). Manager, Mindy Anderson, and staff These races have their roots in manage the festival portion and seek Ancient China where Imperial boats sponsorships through local businesswere decorated like dragons. The wines. ners of these races were promoted “We love that we have the opporinto the Imperial Navy. Eventually, tunity to showcase our very own team, Europe and other nations took an the Leviathans, to the entire communiinterest in the sport, and it grew from ty,” said Adkins. “We love supporting there. teamwork and physical activity The local races, hosted and manand being able to offer more entertainaged by the Pan American Dragon ment to everyone through the festival.” Boat Association, LLC (Panam), For informaiton visit www.panamemerged from the voice of the commudragonboat.com/races/mirabay-dragnity, according to MiraBay Activities on-boat-festival-2-2. Racing team Director, Ashley Adkins. enrollment fees apply, but admission “There was resident interest to start a Dragon Boat team, and it even- to the event is free.

The Space Firehouse for the Cultural event is Center in limited, so Ruskin is RSVP as holding its soon as Gala 2017 possible. with a Tickets to theme of the event Spurs & are $175 Bling on for individSaturday, uals, $275 March 4. for couples Help raise funds for one of This year’s and $950 South Hillsborough County’s gala is host- best arts and education cenfor a ters, the Firehouse Cultural ed by one of reserved Center in Ruskin. south table for Hillsborough County’s leading famieight. All proceeds from the gala benlies, Ora and Frank Diehl, and the efit the Firehouse Cultural Center and gala will be held at the Diehl Family their efforts to provide scholarships Farm and Ranch Estate. The for families and children. This would Firehouse Cultural Center's Gala include scholarships for summer 2017 is honored to have Danita and camps, classes and workshops and Glenn Dickman as this year’s other events held at the center. Honorary Chairs. In addition to great food, there This event calls for your best will be live entertainment and both a western cocktail attire. Cocktails and silent and live auction. There will be hors d’oeuvres will be served from 6 two to three trips, weekend beach to 8 p.m. and dinner will be served at resorts and concert tickets at Amalie 8 p.m. The Diehl Family Farm and Arena available for bid. Ranch Estate is a working horse For information, call 645-7651 or ranch and stable. Guests will experivisit www.firehouseculturalcenter.org. ence a truly unique evening beginThe Firehouse Cultural Center, locatning with a cattle cutting demonstraed at 101 1st. Ave NE in Ruskin, is a tion and square dancing on horse501(c)(3) non-profit and contributions back during the cocktail hour. are tax deductible as allowed by law.

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February 2017

Page 39

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Family Honors Memory Of Well-Loved Cretes With New Backyard Birdseed Business

By Kate Quesada

Most Florida local birding commuwildlife lovers know nity has been great that feeding birds in and nothing but supyour backyard is not portive.” as easy as just buyBisesto, who ing a feeder and runs the store with some seed. That’s help from his wife where long-time Heather, a first grade Valrico resident and teacher, is a sixth owner of Backyard generation Floridian Birdseed, Brian who grew up across Bisesto can help. the street from the Bisesto, who preValrico residents Brian and Heather new Wal-Mart store in Bisesto own Backyard Birdseed on viously owned a conValrico. “When I was Lithia Pinecrest Rd. struction company, five years old, Mr. started the business last year when the Willy used to cut my hair two doors community lost Rich and Tanya Crete, down from our shop’s current location,” owners of the popular Rich’s Backyard he added. Birds, in a car accident. The store stocks bird and wildlife “After years of being a customer of related items from books and garden Rich’s and sharing birding stories, he decor to quality feeders for every back and his wife were in a horrible car acciyard, in addition to many varieties of bird dent and are no longer with us,” said seed. Current deals include a special Bisesto. “The local birding community where if you buy 10 bags of seed you get was devastated to say the least. We lost the eleventh free and if you buy a feeder, a huge part of our community and two you get two pounds of seed to get you of the nicest people you could ever started. “I think what brought me to ownmeet.” When Crete’s sister closed the ing the store is Rich's smile,” said Bisesto. doors to Rich’s Backyard Birds, Bisesto “As a business owner myself, when I approached her with an idea. asked Rich how business was, all he “I went to her to get her blessing to could do was smile ear to ear. That sight sell seed door to door in our local area,” never left my mind and when the accident said Bisesto. “She gave me her overhappened, I knew it was my job to keep whelming approval, so that evening my the feeders full and begin smiling like wife and I ordered 1,200 pounds of Rich.” seed and started Backyard Birdseed, Backyard Birdseed is located at 3642 LLC. After many deliveries, everyone Lithia Pinecrest Rd. and is open Mondayasked when we were going to open the Friday 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. and Saturday 10 store. One thing led to another and I a.m.- 4 p.m. For information, call 816sold my construction company and BIRD or visit leased the same location Rich had. The www.backyardbirdseed.com.

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Tampa on Sunday, March 5. Held at the Raymond James Stadium, registration for “celebrating everyBODY” will begin at 9 a.m. Guest speaker, McCall Dempsey, will share her story of hope and healing from a 15-year battle with an eating disorder. Compiled by Michelle Colesanti, The Alliance is expecting michelle@ospreyobserver.com more than 300 walkers and community resource exhibitors to be participating. Hillsborough County Extension In addition there will be live music, free Offering Free Tax Preparation Help snacks/drinks, and an arts & crafts Hillsborough County Extension is area. The Alliance is proud to partner now scheduling appointments for resiwith the Tampa Bay chapter of the dents who need expert help in preparing International Association of Eating their federal income tax returns. Disorders Professionals to help spread The free service is available to indithe word about this important cause and viduals and families whose Adjusted make this walk a huge Gross Income (AGI) is no more than success. $64,000. AGI does not include money The Alliance for Eating contributed to tax deductible retirement Disorders Awareness is a plans, or certain other adjustments. nonprofit organization dediIRS-certified volunteers can provide cated to providing proaccess to a self-guided tax preparation grams and activities aimed program, as well as one-on-one assisat outreach, education, tance. political advocacy, and Appointments are required, and are early intervention for all available Tuesdays and Thursdays eating disorders. Since its establishment from February 7 through April 11, in 2000, the Alliance has offered presenbetween 2-7 p.m. tations on eating disorders, positive body On the following image, and self esteem to more than Saturdays: February 11, 18, March 4 & 250,000 individuals throughout Florida & 18, between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. nationwide. To schedule an appointment, conOne of the most important missions tact Denise Kantak at 744-5519 ext. of The Alliance for Eating Disorders 54141 or kantakd@HCFLGov.net. Awareness is connecting those seeking Hillsborough County Extension is help with resources and information to located at 5339 CR 579 in Seffner. assist them in their recovery. Each year this organization publishes a compreCelebrating everyBODY: A Walk For hensive referral guide of U.S. treatment Eating Disorders Awareness programs and regional eating disorders The Alliance for Eating Disorders specialists. Awareness (The Alliance) will hold its This invaluable resource will be disfirst community awareness walk in

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tributed to Tampa-area middle & high schools, colleges, social service agencies, doctors offices, and made available online. Monies generated through this event will also be used to establish a free support group in Tampa for those who struggle with this deadly disorder. Visit www.allianceforeatingdisorders.com for more information or to register online.

Hillsborough County Helps Students Achieve Higher Education Goals Through Scholarships

Achieving a higher education is an important life goal for young people and their families. Hillsborough County Social Services has partnered with the Community Action Board to offer scholarships for up to $5,000 to eligible students wishing to continue their education by attending an institution of higher learning. Scholarship applications for the 20172018 school year will be accepted through Friday, March 31. Recipients will be notified in writing prior to the start of the fall semester. Applicants who meet the following eligibility requirements may be awarded a scholarship: Applicants must be between the ages of 17 and 22, and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent (16year-olds may apply if they are graduating seniors). Applicants must reside in Hillsborough County. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0. The applicant’s household income must fall within 125 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines of the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG). The following criteria will also be

Volume 15, Issue 2 used to evaluate applicants: Community service and school involvement, application and letters of recommendation, academic record (transcript), essay response, and panel interview participation. Application materials can be downloaded at www.hillsboroughcounty.org/en/residents/social-services/education-and-training/action-folder/apply-for-a-scholarship. Detailed instructions on how to apply can also be found on the page. Students may submit completed applications online, via mail, or hand deliver applications in person to any County Community Resource Center. Mailed applications can be sent to P.O. Box 1110, Department of Social Services 24th Floor, Attention Sylvia Wint, Tampa, FL 33601. In 2016, 52 scholarships totaling $260,000 were awarded to Hillsborough County students through Hillsborough County Social Services.

A Simpler Place Farm & Market Offers Valentine's Day Brunch, Tasting And Garden Tou

On Sunday, February 12 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m., A Simpler Place Farm & Market will hold a Valentine’s Day Brunch. Under a canopy of old oak trees on this rustic suburban farmette, enjoy a buffet style brunch tasting. The menu is seasonally inspired by Chef Nicolas Gomez and will feature a signature dish sourced from its garden. Brunch will be followed with a tour of the market garden. A Simpler Place Farm & Market is located at 9902 Carr Rd. in Riverview. The cost is $40 per person or $60 per couple. There is also a $10 suggested bar donation. To reserve your spot, visit https://asimplerplace.myshopify.com and click on Events.

February 2017

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Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

With Arts & Entertainment Editor Kathy L. Collins

Artwork Of Two Wonderfully Talented Artists On Display At SouthShore Regional Library

The Firehouse Cultural Center's Firehouse Pub Offers Fabulous Entertainment Close To Home

The current help more exhibit at the than 70 stuSouthShore dents a week Regional during this Library in season to find Ruskin is a terjoy and pleasrific show feaure in their turing two talwork,” said ented local Simon. artists-Diane Harvey Simon of Kings Berman is a Point and fabulous Harvey watercolor Berman of Sun Come down to the SouthShore Regional Library in artist. Berman Ruskin and see the wonderful exhibit featuring the is a graduate City Center. artwork of Diane Simon and Harvey Berman. The exhibit is of the School available for viewing in the Crawford of Visual Arts in New York City where Gallery during the normal hours of the he majored in illustration and commerlibrary which is located at 15816 Beth cial art. He spent many years working Shields Way in Ruskin. as a commercial artist in New York City Diane Simon is a watercolor artist. at two advertising agencies. She is an active member of several Berman said, "I hope that my use organizations including the Florida of color and design attract people to Watercolor Society, Florida Suncoast look at my work." Watercolor Society, Kings Point Art Like Simon, Berman now devotes League, Sun City Center Art League much of his time to share his skills with and American Watercolor Society. She others. "I teach watercolor to residents has had her work shown throughout of Sun City Center and the Kings Point the area and currently has pieces in communities. I believe my work on disthe Florida Suncoast Watercolor play illustrates my love of color, design Society at the Art Center Manatee. and passion of composition," said Simon said, "The juror (for the Berman. Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society) Berman teaches at the Art Club of Carol Frye, awarded me with an honor- Sun City Center. "My class is working able mention. We had more than 150 on a future exhibit dealing with Haiku pieces and due to space, she had to Poetry where they chose a poem and eliminate almost 30% of those entered, create an image that deals with the so to have two pieces accepted and author's verbal intent," added Berman. one winning an award, I am blessed." If you would like to be considered In addition to her own art, Simone for an exhibit in the Crawford Gallery at lends her expertise to active seniors. “I the SouthShore Regional Library, teach approximately 46 weeks of the please see the front desk at the library year to an active senior community and or call 272-3652.

The Firehouse title of her newest CD Cultural Center's with the Valerie Gillespie Firehouse Pub brings a Ensemble. The CD and variety of talented perthis show will offer her formers to the South signature saxophone Shore. You can see live and sentimental take on music, comedy shows new and classic jazz and more. All of this is songs. Gillespie has offered close to home so played all over the U.S. you do not have to fight All shows begin at traffic or pay for parking 7:30 p.m. Tickets for the to have a great night. music shows are either You will not want to miss $18 or $23 if you are a some of the great shows Celebrate the love of Valentine’s member and buy Day this month at the Firehouse advance tickets or $23 that the Firehouse Pub Cultural Center’s Firehouse Pub is offering this February. with Valerie Gillespie Ensemble. to $28 if you buy at the First up, The door. Tickets for the Rumba Brothers will offer Latin Love comedy show are either $15 to $18 if you Songs on Saturday, February 11. Jose are a member for advance tickets or $20 Velez Fernandez and Luis Alfredo-Garcia to $25 at the door. are the Rumba Brothers. They have been Georgia Vahue, Executive Director of playing together for nearly 20 years. They the Firehouse Cultural Center said, started their musical friendship when they “February is our month of romance at the were students at UCF. The Rumba Firehouse Pub. Start your Valentine week Brothers will play a mixture of Latin love on Saturday, February 11 with Latin Love songs to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Songs by the Rumba Brothers and conIf you like comedy, get your tickets tinue the love on Saturday, February 18 now for Comedy Night on Friday, with French love songs by Valerie February 17. While the comedians have Gillespie. The Firehouse Pub is a perfect not yet been announced, the comedy date night.” shows at the Firehouse Pub sell out early, The Firehouse Cultural Center is so don’t miss your chance for a good located at 101 1st Ave. NE in Ruskin. For time. Next, come see Valerie Gillespie on more information and to purchase tickets, Saturday, February 18. Jazz musician, please call 645-7651 or visit firehouseculGillespie is living the Lush Life- this is the turalcenter.org.

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Volume 15, Issue 2

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

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Riverview Lady Sharks Advance To Post Season As District Runner Up By Tamas Mondovics Coaches, parents and senior, Lauren fans representing the Evans, assistRiverview High School girl’s ed by Jenna soccer team have every Oldham reason to be pleased with changed the the 2016-2017 winter seascore to 2-1. son. Emma Milligan Following a strong 8-5-1 added one regular season the Lady more goal to Sharks fought through the make it 3-1 (5A-6) District playoffs facfollowed by ing Newsome at the title senior captain bout. Addison Ura’s Starting out strong, the goal that girls managed to shake up sealed the Wolves defense by scorNewsome’s 4ing the first goal in the 14th 1 win and its minute, reminding everyone fourth straight of the reason for their seadistrict tile son success. advancing to However, Newsome the region proved to be too much for playoffs. the hard working Riverview Across team led by program head town another coach George Fearon, who battle was watched his girls slowly run being waged Newsome junior Jenna Oldham, (3) takes a shot at the Riverview goal out of steam. Riverview High School Lady Sharks senior captain during the Class 5A District 6 final game. Oldham’s skills proved to be a as the major part of Newsome’s 4-1 victory against Riverview, the program’s As if to give Riverview Robyn Larson (18) puts the pressure Newsome sophoBloomingdale more Sophie Sharder during the Class 5A District 6 fourth consecutive district title and its undefeated (18-0-3) regular season the chance to hit first, Lady Bulls, final game. record ahead of the region playoffs. Newsome regrouped and coached by never looked back, proving Heather Iverson have also manto the district who is boss. aged to post a 10-1-1 overall The Wolves hit back just two record, while maintaining an minutes later when sophomore outstanding undefeated 6-0 disSophie Shrader skillfully put the ball trict run. into the back of the net to tie the Riverview’s post season game 1-1. ended with a 3-0 loss to Winter Scoreless for the remainder of Park. the first half, Newsome’s onslaught Kelly confirmed that her of shots were blocked by Riverview’s girls are in position to do more very talented goal keeper Summer than just coming close to the Simpson. state title when she told Newsome Coach, Kelly reporters, “I think this group can Townsend assisted by John Evensen do it, they just might have what put things in perspective at half time. it takes.” “We got this,” Townsend told her For more information visit, girls just moments before the second Florida High School Athletic half. “We made one mistake, but you Association (FHSAA) region are dominating this game.” and state playoffs please visit The tie was eventually broken in Bloomingdale High School Girls soccer team celebrates their Class 4A District 9 Championship vic- www.fhsaa.org. tory. The Lady Bulls posted a 6-0 district record to advance to the region playoffs. the 61st minute, when Newsome

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Strawberry Festival Offers More Than Food, Music And Iconic Racing Pigs The Florida Strawberry Festival, with its delicious food and exciting entertainment, has been a local favorite since 1930 and is back this year from March 212, promising to be better than ever. According to festival Public Relations and Media Representative Lauren McNair, the strawberry-centered food at the event is always one of the biggest draws. “We have about 150 food vendors with a wide variety of choices, so there really is something for everyone,” said McNair, who explained that strawberry shortcake is the most popular food item with about 250,000 sold during the 11-day festival last year. McNair added that one of the best ways for strawberry lovers to navigate the event this year is by using the Strawberry Central page on the Website and mobile app. “Visitors can use Strawberry Central to see a complete list of every food item we offer. It is the go-to place for those who come here for all things strawberry,” said McNair. Other popular food items include strawberry milkshakes, corn dogs, Kettle Korn, Amish Doughnuts and chocolate covered bacon. The festival also offers an impressive lineup of musical acts with many free concerts throughout the time and tickets

By Kate Quesada

Strawberry Production Display, which is a great agricultural education experience, and Robinson’s Racing Pigs.” There is also a Youth Strawberry Stemming Contest on Saturday, March 4. The You can enjoy delicious schedule for all of Plant City strawberries in a variety of ways at this these events can year’s Florida Strawberry also be found on Festival. the Website at www.flstrawberryfestival.com. McNair credits the support of the community for the festival’s continued success. The Florida Strawberry Festival will take “The people of Plant City are very place in Plant City March 2-12 this year. proud of our agricultural roots, so the on Friday, March 3 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., whole area works hard to make sure ROBOCARS “Big Blue” and “Yellow the festival is a success,” said McNair. Jacket,” the Tampa Bay Times Race “We have about 2,500 volunteers from Zone and nightly entertainment in the the community, some of whom even Public Showcase Tent. There are also take vacation time from their jobs so available at an extra cost for headliners magic, circus and milking shows, pig they can volunteer here, who want to including Willie Nelson, 3 Doors Down, races and food contests from corn dog contribute whatever they can to make Little Big Town, The Bellamy Brothers, and strawberry mashed potato pie eating sure visitors to Plant City receive a Elle King and Patti LaBelle. to strawberry stemming. Times for these warm welcome and have a good expe“We sell about 9,000 seats to every events are available on the Website rience here.” show and offer 3,000 free seats on a first under the “Free Entertainment” tab. For more information on the festicome, first seated basis in the Morrow McNair recommends the SunnyBell val, visit www.flstrawberryfestival.com Steel Free Grandstand,” said McNair. Kiddie Korral for families with young chilor call 752-9194. Tickets to the event However, events included in the tickdren. be purchased at the gate for $10 can et price include something for everyone “It is an area separate from the main for adults and $5 for children 6-12. with seven livestock shows, contests, midway that is smaller and offers rides Some Public Supermarket locations sell displays and exhibits. Highlights include just for kids,” said McNair. “Children will discounted tickets. Visit the festival the Cabot Strawberry Smoothie event also want to see the Belmont Festival of Website for a full list of store. The fairwhere Cabot Creamery will be creating Magic, the New Circus Incredible, the grounds are located at 303 N. Lemon the World Record Strawberry Smoothie Florida Strawberry Growers Association St. in Plant City.

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Page 44

Riverview/Apollo Beach Edition

Volume 15, Issue 2